It can be hard to find just the right pair of binoculars. Having some knowledge about the various types of binoculars can make your decision easier. There are many different kinds of binoculars with a just aboutunlimited number of combinations when it comes to specifications and features.

Every pair of binoculars will come three main components: objective lenses, prisms, and eyepieces. The binoculars use objective lenses to collect light and magnify the image. The image that comes out of the objective lenses is upside down and backward from left to right.

A prism is what is used to correct the orientation of the image. The eyepiece will determine the binoculars FOV (field of view) and image resolution. There is a wide array of binoculars available. Mini-binoculars will typically feature objective lenses no larger than 26mm in diameter. They will most often have a straight line roof prism design.

They will usually be foldable so that they can be more easily carried. These binoculars are very effective for a variety of applications even though they are light and small. Since they feature small objective lenses they will not be best for high resolution birding or many other nature applications.

Compact binoculars are bigger than the size of mini binoculars but are still small and light enough to be easily carried. Their objective lenses are usually no more than 26mm in diameter. They make great binoculars for many applications including sporting events. Standard binoculars are larger than either mini or compact binoculars. Usually the objective lenses for standard binoculars will be at least 35mm in diameter.

This gives you great high contrast images in many circumstances. They are great for all purpose applications such as sporting events and long range nature observation. They come with a large selection of features and specifications as well as many different prices.