If you're in the market for new binoculars these days, chances are you will be confused by the bewildering array of makes and models available in nearly every price range. To help sort through this morass of glass, 10 certified Lab Scientists of Ornithology from the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology plus interested birders reviewed a host of possibilities. The results of this review are presented and sorted based on price and rated on features and performance within each price catagory.

For example, less-expensive binoculars are rarely very durable or waterproof, and some of them produce such poor image quality they'll cause severe eyestrain if you look through them too long.

Its a myth that beginners should start with inexpensive binoculars. Using high-quality optics right away will enhance your enjoyment and speed up your ability to learn more about birds etc.

Factors to consider, in addition to price, include magnification, weight, overall image quality, field of view, and minimum close-focus distance.

TABLE USE ..... Basics ...... $700 + ..... $400 - $700 ..... $200 - $400

UNDER $200 ... COMPACT