Spotting scopes are an essential tool for bird watchers, hunters, and nature enthusiasts. These optical devices help you observe distant objects with clarity and detail, making them perfect for a range of outdoor activities. A spotting scope is essentially a small, portable telescope that provides a magnified view of distant objects. They are typically used for bird watching, hunting, wildlife observation, and even astronomy.

When it comes to selecting the best spotting scope, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. First, you'll want to consider the magnification power of the scope. This is the degree to which the scope can enlarge an image, and it's typically represented by two numbers separated by an "X." For example, a 20-60x spotting scope can magnify an image between 20 and 60 times its original size. A higher magnification can be useful for observing distant objects, but it can also make the image shakier and harder to focus.

Another important consideration is the size and weight of the spotting scope. If you plan to take it on extended hikes or trips, you'll want to look for a lightweight and compact model that's easy to carry. Additionally, you'll want to consider the quality of the optics, such as the lens coatings, prism type, and overall construction.

We spent hours researching and testing various spotting scopes to identify the best options on the market. In the following sections, we'll provide an in-depth review of the top spotting scopes available, along with their key features and benefits.

Best Spotting Scopes

We have researched and tested the top spotting scopes available on Amazon to bring you the best options for your outdoor activities. Whether you're a birdwatcher, hunter, or nature enthusiast, a spotting scope can enhance your experience by providing clear and detailed views of distant objects. Our list includes a variety of spotting scopes with different features and price points, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

Gosky Updated 20-60x80 Spotting Scope

We highly recommend the Gosky Updated 20-60x80 Spotting Scope for anyone looking for a high-quality spotting scope.

Pros

• The variable 20x to 60x magnification and dynamic lens focusing system make it easy to zoom in and get a closer look at your subject.
• The fully multi-coated 80mm green film objective lens provides a field of view at 82.9-48ft/1000yards, delivering crisp and clear images.
• The nitrogen filled waterproof and fog-proof design enables the scope to withstand the toughest environments, making it perfect for outdoor activities like bird watching, wildlife watching, hiking, camping, and more.

Cons

• The front cap is very fragile and does not latch well.
• The tripod mount has lost paint in just a few uses.
• The tabletop tripod is nice, but this scope would benefit from a full-size version.

We were impressed with the quality of the Gosky Updated 20-60x80 Spotting Scope. The BAK4 Porro prism optics increase light transmission, making your view brighter and clearer. The eyepiece shield can be stretched out to protect the eyepiece, and the durable framework and rubber armor provide a non-slip and shock-proof grip.

The smartphone digiscoping adapter included enables you to take photos and videos of what you have observed, bringing the nature closer to you. The tripod provides you with a more stable observation from any angle. The carry case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, and cleaning cloth make it more convenient to carry and maintain.

Overall, the Gosky Updated 20-60x80 Spotting Scope is an excellent product at an affordable price. We highly recommend it to anyone in need of a reliable and high-quality spotting scope.

SVBONY SV28 25-75x70 Spotting Scope

If you're looking for a spotting scope that is great for bird watching, hunting, and target shooting, the SVBONY SV28 25-75x70 Spotting Scope is a great choice.

Pros

• The large objective lens provides powerful light gathering ability in low light environments.
• The fold-down eyecup and eye mask design make it comfortable to use, even for long periods of time.
• The waterproof and fog-proof design allows you to use it in any weather.

Cons

• The small size of the picture at 100 yards may make it difficult to see details beyond that range.
• While the assembly is not difficult, it may take some time to set up.
• The picture quality is not as high as more expensive spotting scopes.

We recently had the opportunity to use the SVBONY SV28 25-75x70 Spotting Scope on a bird-watching trip, and we were impressed with its performance. The large objective lens allowed us to see birds clearly even in low light conditions, and the fold-down eyecup and eye mask design made it comfortable to use for extended periods of time.

One downside to the scope is that the picture quality is not as high as more expensive models, but for the price, it is a great value. Additionally, while the assembly is not difficult, it may take some time to set up.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the SVBONY SV28 25-75x70 Spotting Scope to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable spotting scope for bird watching, hunting, or target shooting.

SVBONY SV28 Spotting Scope

We highly recommend purchasing the SVBONY SV28 Spotting Scope for its impressive magnification and portability.

Pros

• The 25-75x zoom feature makes it easy to focus and change magnification, making it perfect for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
• The 70mm large object lens allows for more powerful light gathering ability and a decent view of the target once set.
• The IP65 waterproof feature can avoid sudden environmental changes to damage the SV28 spotting scope.

Cons

• The extendable sunshade built onto the main barrel to reduce glare can be a bit cumbersome to use.
• The desktop tripod included is not very sturdy and may not be suitable for heavy-duty use.
• The phone adapter included may not be compatible with all phone models.

The SVBONY SV28 Spotting Scope is a lightweight and portable spotting scope that is perfect for carrying when going out for observation. The finish is made of a seamless non-slip material so it doesn't feel like it would slip out of your hands if wet. The spotting scope also includes a phone adapter and portable desktop tripod, making it easier to share videos and photos.

Overall, the SVBONY SV28 Spotting Scope is a great spotting scope for beginners to novices. It is easy to set up when looking at birds and scenery, and it is also very suitable for use in family camping. Its lightweight and portable weight make it easy to carry around, and its IP65 waterproof feature ensures that it can avoid sudden environmental changes to damage the spotting scope.

Gosky 20-60x60 HD Spotting Scope

We highly recommend the Gosky 20-60x60 HD Spotting Scope for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable spotting scope.

Pros

• The adjustable 20-60x zoom magnification allows for detailed viewing of distant targets, making it perfect for bird watching, wildlife observation, hiking, camping, and more.
• The fully multi-coated 60mm green film objective lens and BAK4 Porro prism optics provide bright, clear, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions.
• The durable framework and high-quality rubber armor provide a non-slip, shock-proof grip and external protection, and the scope is waterproof and dustproof for reliable performance in all environments.

Cons

• The included smartphone digiscoping adapter is not the most user-friendly and may require some trial and error to get the perfect shot.
• The eyepiece shield can be a bit difficult to stretch out, making it somewhat inconvenient to protect the eyepiece.
• The tripod included in the package is not the most stable and may require some adjustments to get the desired viewing angle.

Overall, the Gosky 20-60x60 HD Spotting Scope is a great value for the price and provides excellent performance for a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you're a bird watcher, wildlife enthusiast, or simply enjoy exploring the great outdoors, this spotting scope is a must-have accessory.

Nexiview Spotting Scope

We highly recommend the Nexiview Spotting Scope for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile spotting scope that is easy to use and transport.

Pros

• The 25-75x magnification range and ergonomic 45 degree angled eyepiece provide clear and comfortable viewing for bird watching, hunting, target shooting, and more.
• The fully multi-coated lens and BAK4 roof prism deliver bright, clear, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions, with fast and fine-tuning focus adjustment.
• The high-quality rubber armor provides a non-slip grip and shock-proof protection, with a built-in retractable sunshade that reduces glare, and an included tripod that allows for adjustable viewing angles. The scope also comes with a carrying bag, lens cap, cleaning cloth and neck strap for convenience.

Cons

• The scope is a bit heavy, weighing in at 4.09 pounds, which may not be ideal for long hikes or extended use.
• The phone adapter may not fit all types of smartphones, and may require some adjustments or additional accessories.
• The scope may not be as durable as some higher-end models, and may require occasional maintenance or repairs.

Overall, the Nexiview Spotting Scope is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile spotting scope that delivers clear and bright images in a variety of conditions. Whether you're a bird watcher, hunter, or target shooter, this scope has everything you need to capture the perfect shot. So why wait? Order your Nexiview Spotting Scope today and start enjoying the great outdoors like never before!

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a spotting scope, there are several factors that we need to consider. We have to make sure that we are investing in a product that meets our needs and preferences. Here are some important features that we should look at when choosing a spotting scope:

Magnification Power

The magnification power of a spotting scope is one of the most important factors to consider. It determines how much closer we can get to the object we are observing. A spotting scope with a magnification power of 20x to 60x is considered ideal for bird watching, hunting, and nature observation.

Objective Lens Diameter

The objective lens diameter determines the amount of light that enters the spotting scope. A larger diameter means more light and a brighter image. We should look for a spotting scope with an objective lens diameter of at least 60mm.

Lens Coating

The lens coating is another important factor to consider. It determines the quality of the image we see through the spotting scope. We should look for a spotting scope with fully multi-coated lenses, which provide a clear and bright image.

Eye Relief

Eye relief refers to the distance between the eyepiece and our eye when we are using the spotting scope. It is important for people who wear glasses or have eyesight problems. We should look for a spotting scope with an eye relief of at least 14mm.

Waterproof and Fogproof

A spotting scope that is waterproof and fogproof is ideal for outdoor activities. It ensures that the spotting scope can withstand harsh weather conditions and provides a clear image even in foggy conditions.

In conclusion, when choosing a spotting scope, we should consider the magnification power, objective lens diameter, lens coating, eye relief, and whether it is waterproof and fogproof. By considering these factors, we can ensure that we invest in a spotting scope that meets our needs and preferences.