Best Binoculars for Kids: Buying Guide

Looking for the best binoculars for kids of all ages and needs? We have you covered. Read on for our full buying guide.

Introducing children to the wonders of nature and inspiring their curiosity is an important task for parents and educators alike. One great way to engage kids with their surroundings is by providing them with binoculars specifically designed for their needs. Selecting the best binoculars for youngsters, as compared to adult binoculars, is not only about finding the right size and weight but also about choosing a product that’s fun and easy for them to use. 

Our Top Pick!

We just love the design and durability of these binoculars.

Plus, they are a great price and come in a range of colours – the perfect introductory pair for kids.

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If you are staycationing in the UK a pair of kids’ binoculars can make a great addition to the holiday. For one thing, kids love to have something that is their very own, but also kids can use binoculars in a range of situations, from viewing animals up close at the wildlife park to seeing what they can spot on a road trip, or even after dark to explore the night sky. Binoculars can be both fun and educational, is there a more perfect gift for a kid?

There are a variety of binoculars available on the market today that cater to children, each with its own unique features and specifications. When searching for the perfect pair, it’s essential to consider factors such as magnification, objective lens diameter, and durability, as well as the child’s age and interests.

Researching and comparing various models can seem daunting, but in this article, we’ve simplified the process by presenting a selection of the best binoculars for kids. Keeping in mind varying price points and accessories, these options are sure to spark excitement and a sense of adventure in your young explorers.

Safety Tips for Kids Using Binoculars

Before we dive into the best use of binoculars it’s important to outline some tips to keep kids safe while using them. In this article, we talk about the best binoculars for kids of different ages. However, you know your child best, so only you can gauge when they are mature enough to follow these guidelines in order to ensure their safety.

• Supervision: Kids should always be supervised by an adult when using binoculars. This will ensure that they use them safely and responsibly.
• Eye safety: Kids should be taught not to look directly at the sun or any other bright light source through binoculars. This can cause serious eye damage.
• Proper handling: Kids should be taught to handle binoculars carefully and not to drop them. They should also avoid touching the lenses with their fingers, as this can leave smudges and affect the clarity of the image.
• Comfortable fit: Kids should use binoculars that are the right size and which fit comfortably around their necks and in their smaller hands. This will prevent them from dropping the binoculars or straining their necks.
• Breakaway Neck Strap: If your child is going to be using binoculars when very active, then consider swapping out a regular neckstrap for a breakaway one. More on that later.
• Use in safe areas: Kids should use binoculars in safe areas, away from traffic or other hazards. They should also avoid using them in areas with steep drops or uneven terrain.

Best Binoculars for Kids: Key Features

Weight and Fit

When choosing binoculars for kids, it’s essential to consider the weight and fit. Lightweight binoculars are easier for children to carry, as they may struggle with heavier or bulkier options. Look for models with adjustable eye relief and eye cups, which allow for a comfortable fit and reduce eye strain. Children naturally have small hands and therefore it’s important that their set of binoculars is smaller and not too much weight to carry around.

Compact and Waterproof

Compact binoculars are ideal for kids, as they are easier to hold and store. Additionally, waterproof models protect the binoculars from moisture and accidental spills, making them suitable for outdoor adventures such as birdwatching or hiking.

• Best Compact Binoculars: Smaller and easy-to-carry designs suited for children’s hands
• Best Waterproof Binoculars: Resistant to water and moisture, suitable for outdoor use

Magnification and Field of View

The magnification and field of view are critical factors to consider when selecting the best binoculars for kids. Generally, a lower magnification power, between 6 x and 8 x magnification is recommended for children, as it provides a wider field of view and a more stable image. A wider field of view allows for better observation of objects, especially for beginners. For example, 6 x is a wide field of view and 8 x is a moderately wide field of view.

Durability and Affordability

Durability is an essential attribute of binoculars for kids, as they are more likely to be dropped or accidentally mishandled. Opt for binoculars with rubber armour, which provides shock resistance and a secure grip. Additionally, affordability should be considered, as top-quality options can be quite pricey. Look for binoculars within your price range, but prioritize functionality and durability over cost.

Top Recommendations

Best for Older Kids: Celestron Nature DX

The Celestron Nature DX is an excellent choice for kids, offering high-quality optics in a durable and compact design. Its 8x magnification and 42mm objective lens provide a wide field of view, making it suitable for various outdoor pursuits, from birdwatching to sports events. Moreover, it has:

• Multi-coated lenses for improved light transmission and clarity
• Twist-up eyecups for comfortable viewing, even with glasses
• Waterproof and fog proof body for use in any weather conditions

These features, combined with its ease of use, make the Celestron Nature DX a top pick for kids’ binoculars.

Best for Younger Kids: Obuby Real Binoculars

If you’re seeking a more affordable option without compromising on quality, the Obuby Real Binoculars provide excellent value for money. The compact size of these binoculars which are designed specifically for children, ensures there is a comfortable fit and easy handling. 

Features include:

• 8x magnification and 21mm objective lens for versatile use
• Shockproof rubber coating to withstand drops and rough handling
• Adjustable focus and eyepiece to cater to the unique needs of each user
• They come in a wide range of colours

Despite their budget-friendly price, the Obuby Real Binoculars offer a great viewing experience, making them a popular choice for kids’ introduction to the world of binoculars. If this price point is a good fit for your budget, then these are a good pair of binoculars to get younger kids started with.

Benefits of Binoculars for Kids

Learning and Educational Tool

Binoculars for kids can be an excellent learning and educational tool. They provide hands-on experience that engages children in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. For example, learning about optics and magnification can spark an interest in physics, while observing the natural world encourages environmental studies.

Additionally, kids’ binoculars can be used as an educational tool during school field trips or outdoor activities, helping children gather information and complete assignments. This practical application not only reinforces concepts learned in the classroom but also promotes an active approach to education.

Encouraging Outdoor Exploration

Equipping children with binoculars encourages them to explore the great outdoors. By observing nature up close, children can develop an appreciation for their environment and the countless species that thrive within it.

Getting outside has numerous benefits, both for physical and mental health. Outdoor exploration provides opportunities for exercise, fresh air, and sunlight, all of which contribute to a child’s overall well-being. Furthermore, stepping away from screens and engaging in outdoor activities can reduce stress and improve concentration.

Developing Skills in Observation

Through the use of binoculars, children can enhance their observation skills. These devices enable them to examine their surroundings, spot fascinating details, and make connections between what they see and what they’ve learned from various sources, including books, lessons, and documentaries.

Moreover, kids’ binoculars can also help children develop patience, attentiveness, and focus. As they learn to scan their environment, they will gradually become more attentive, honing their ability to spot subtle movements and patterns in nature. This skill set is valuable, not just for their academic pursuits, but for their personal growth and development as well.

Additional Considerations When Purchasing Binoculars

Eyepieces and Eyecups

When selecting binoculars for kids, it’s important to consider the eyepieces and eyecups. These parts of the binoculars are essential for comfortable viewing. Children’s smaller faces may have different proportions than adults’ faces, so look for eyecups that are adjustable and made of soft materials. This will ensure a comfortable fit for various face sizes and shapes.

Objective Lens Diameter and Lens Coating

The objective lens diameter affects the binoculars’ light-gathering ability. A larger diameter will allow more light to enter the binoculars, resulting in brighter and clearer images. For children, an objective lens diameter of around 30mm to 40mm is suitable, balancing portability with adequate light-gathering capacity.

Lens coating plays a significant role in image quality. An anti-reflective coating will reduce glare and enhance light transmission. Look for binoculars with multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses to ensure the best viewing experience for kids.

Waterproofing and Ruggedness

Children can be adventurous and often subject their belongings to rough treatment. To ensure the binoculars can withstand these conditions, choose a pair with waterproofing and rugged features. Waterproof binoculars will prevent moisture from entering and damaging internal components, while a rugged construction will provide additional protection against drops and impacts.

By considering these additional factors, you can find the ideal pair of binoculars suitable for children’s needs and preferences.

Usage Scenarios

In this section, we will discuss various usage scenarios for children’s binoculars, including Nature and Wildlife Observation, Outdoor Sporting Events and Stargazing, and Travel and Leisure Activities.

Nature and Wildlife Observation

Children’s binoculars are perfect for getting a closer look at nature and wildlife. They enable kids to observe animals and birds in their natural habitats without disturbing them. Bird watching is a popular activity that can be enjoyed in various environments, from local parks and gardens to wildlife sanctuaries and wilderness areas.

• Birdwatching: With a good pair of children’s binoculars, young birdwatchers can identify different species and observe their behaviours.
• Wildlife observation: Whether it’s a family trip to a nature reserve or an educational outing to a wildlife sanctuary, kids can use binoculars to spot animals and learn about their habitats.

Outdoor Sporting Events and Stargazing

Children’s binoculars also come in handy for outdoor sport events, where they can help viewers to see the action more clearly. Similarly, stargazing can be an enjoyable and educational activity for children, as they explore constellations and celestial bodies.

• Sporting events: Binoculars can bring kids closer to their favourite sports, whether it’s football, rugby, cricket or any other event.
• Stargazing: Children can use binoculars to spot stars, planets, and other celestial objects, developing an interest in astronomy and inspiring curiosity about the universe.

Travel and Leisure Activities

A good pair of children’s binoculars can enhance any trip, making it more exciting and enjoyable for kids. They can be used for a variety of leisure activities, from hiking and fishing expeditions to simply exploring the beauty of the local area.

• Hiking: Children can use binoculars to spot interesting flora, fauna, and scenic views during hikes and nature walks.
• Fishing: A pair of binoculars can help kids spot fish and monitor their movements in the water.
• Garden adventures: Even in their own outdoor space, children can explore the world around them with binoculars, discovering insects, plants, and local bird species.

Children’s binoculars provide a range of practical uses and educational opportunities for young minds. They can be used to enhance outdoor experiences across various activities and promote a greater appreciation for the world around us.

Age-Appropriate Binoculars

School-Age Children

As children grow and develop, their needs for binoculars change. For school-age children, consider binoculars with a higher magnification, between 6-8x. This age group of young kids can handle slightly more complex mechanisms and will benefit from a better image quality. Key factors to consider are:

• Adjustable eye-relief
• Lightweight design
• Waterproof and fog-proof
• Wider field of view

Older Children and Teenagers

By the time children reach their teenage years, they are likely to have more advanced interests in activities such as birdwatching, stargazing or other hobbies that require the use of binoculars. In this case, for older kids consider binoculars with a magnification of 8-10x for better image clarity. Features to look for include:

• Superior optics quality
• Tripod compatibility
• Fully multi-coated lenses
• Compact and portable design
• Comfortable eye-cups

These age-appropriate recommendations will help you select the best binoculars for children, ensuring they can enjoy their hobbies and interests while developing their observation skills.

Accessories and Warranties

Neck Straps and Carrying Cases

An essential accessory for children’s binoculars is a comfortable neck strap. It helps ensure the binocular’s safety and keeps them accessible for the spontaneous spotting of birds, wildlife, or stars. A neck strap should be adjustable for a secure fit and made from a soft, durable material.

SAFETY FIRST: It’s important to note that if your child is going to be very active when using the binoculars then they should always have a breakaway neck strap. This is for safety reasons.

Children are often active and may run or play while wearing binoculars around their necks. If the strap is not breakaway, it could get caught on something, causing a choking hazard or injury to the child’s neck. A breakaway neck strap is designed to release easily under pressure, reducing the risk of injury. It is a simple but effective safety feature that can help protect children while they explore the world around them.

If the binoculars don’t come with a breakaway next strap then consider using them without a strap or swap the existing one out for a breakaway strap. Again, only you know the best option for your child.

Carrying Cases

Carrying cases are another practical accessory for protecting binoculars from dirt, dust, and accidental drops. A quality carrying case should have padding or reinforced walls and a zip or Velcro enclosure. Look for a case with a belt loop or shoulder strap for additional carrying options.

Tripods and Lens Caps

While not always necessary for children’s binoculars, a tripod can still be a useful accessory for stability and extended observation periods. If the binoculars feature a tripod mount, select one with adjustable legs suitable for a child’s height.

Lens caps provide extra protection for the binocular’s objective and eyepiece lenses. They shield the optics from dirt, scratches, and other potential damage. Ideally, choose binoculars with tethered lens caps to prevent loss.

Lifetime Warranties and Guarantees

A lifetime warranty or guarantee indicates a manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability and quality. These warranties usually cover defects in materials and workmanship, offering added peace of mind when purchasing binoculars for kids.

When evaluating a warranty, consider:

• What the warranty covers
• How long the warranty is valid
• Whether it is transferable
• The process for making a claim

In summary, when selecting the best binoculars for kids, consider accessories like neck straps, carrying cases, tripods, and lens caps for added convenience and protection. Additionally, opt for models with lifetime warranties or guarantees for a long-lasting investment.

We hope this buying guide to the best binoculars for kids will help you choose the right option for the child in your life. Binoculars make a great gift and one that will enhance any child’s learning. Plus, they are great fun!