Binoculars, telescopes and spotting scopes

You've probably heard of it - a telescope. But did you know that the first telescope was invented by a Dutchman as early as 1608? We owe the telescope to Hans Lipperhey.

Whereas binoculars are used to view objects on earth enlarged, telescopes are used to make astronomical observations. In other words, you can use them to view the universe. Besides telescopes and binoculars, you also have spotting scopes. These look an awful lot like telescopes and that's the point. The spotting scope is actually the golden mean between binoculars and telescopes. For instance, they are smaller and handier than telescopes and again have much more range as binoculars.

As you read, there are both pros and cons. We would like to help you choose, below you can find the advantages of spotting scope and telescope versus binoculars

Binoculars vs telescope

Whoever thinks of a telescope quickly thinks of the universe and planets. This is absolutely right, as a telescope is a widely used instrument in astronomy. Telescopes and binoculars can both be used to observe objects better and, yes, much larger.

In the world of binoculars, 10x binoculars are considered the highest magnification possible. Of course, even bigger is possible but you don't need it for everyday use. Binoculars then become unstable, too heavy and also very expensive. A better option then is a telescope.

So a telescope has a much higher magnification factor, allowing you to see very far. Therefore, to get enough light in, the lens is much larger. This not only makes the telescope heavier but also makes the image more susceptible to vibration. This is why you always use a telescope from a tripod. Also, most telescopes have only one eyepieces instead of two. That does make a step change in focusing.

Binoculars are a lot smaller, handier and lighter than telescopes. Transporting them is also a lot easier, with a good belt you can hang them around your neck in no time. Binoculars take up almost no space when you need to store them, you just put them in the cupboard.

Advantages of a telescope:

• Much greater magnification factor
• One eyepieces instead of two
• For stargazing the best choice

Disadvantages of a telescope:

• Larger and heavier
• More expensive to purchase
• Always needs a tripod

Binoculars vs spotting scope

Telescopes with small(er) magnifications are called spotting scopes. They are most similar to a telescope. They are basically mini telescopes with a magnification factor of 25x to 60x. Fortunately, spotting scopes are a lot handier than telescopes.

Like a telescope, they have only one eyepieces and a much higher magnification factor than binoculars. In most cases, you set the magnification factor yourself, for example from 40 to 60x. Ideal for bird watching or while hiking. A spotting scope does have one big disadvantage. Like a telescope, you always have to use it from a tripod or the image will shake too much.

Advantages of a spotting scope:

• Much higher magnification factor
• One eyepiece instead of two
• Small and handy

Disadvantages of a spotting scope:

• One eyepieces instead of two
• Heavier than binoculars
• Always needs a tripod

See all our binoculars and scopes here