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7×50 vs 8×56 Binoculars

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Are you trying to decide between 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars? Look no further!

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the main differences between the two, and provide you with examples, full reviews, and recommendations to help you choose the best binoculars for your specific needs.

Whether you’re interested in astronomy at night, wildlife observation, hunting, birding, security, survival, or even marine uses, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get started!

7×50 vs 8×56 Binoculars-Comparison Factors

• Magnification
• General Features
• Twilight Factor
• Exit Pupil and Image Brightness
• Field Of View Size &
• Weight Eye Relief Price
• Close Focus
• Uses

Design and General Features

8×56 binoculars are diverse and come with three different prism types and multiple designs:

Prism types are Schmidt and Pechan like Steiner Ranger Xtreme 8×56 binoculars or Abbe-Koenig like Zeiss victory SF 8×56, and Porro Prism like Steiner Nighhunter 8×56 binoculars.

Different designs of 8×56 binoculars can be a single hinge, open bridge or single hinge Porro designs.

While 7×50’s binoculars almost always come in a Single Hinge Porro prism design.

Also, 8×56 binoculars are more diverse in terms of materials, with more affordable models made from plastic housing or aluminum housing and top-range models made from magnesium housing.

While 7×50 binoculars are rarely made of magnesium, they are mostly made of plastic in most cases or aluminum. The reason could be that 7×50 binoculars are mostly designed to withstand salt in seawater and direct sunlight. (Owing To Marine Applications Mostly)

Check: Can Binoculars Get Wet?

Also, 7×50 binoculars usually come with individual focusing, while 8×56 binoculars can have either central or individual focusing.

7x50s can come with compasses as they are mostly used for boating use like Steiner Commander 7×50 or Fujinon Mariner 7×50 while you won’t find compasses on 8×56 binoculars.

Size & Weight

The size and weight of binoculars can affect how comfortable they are to use, as well as their portability and ease of storage.

In terms of size and weight, 8×56 binoculars are typically larger and heavier than 7×50 binoculars.

This is due to the larger objective lens size of 56mm compared to 50mm in the 7×50 model.

One advantage of larger binoculars is that they can provide a brighter and clearer image, thanks to their larger objective lens size.

However, larger binoculars may be less comfortable to use for extended periods of time, particularly if they are heavy. They may also be more challenging to carry around, particularly if you are hiking or traveling long distances.

On the other hand, smaller binoculars like the 7×50 model can be more comfortable to use for longer periods of time, thanks to their lighter weight and smaller size.

They may also be easier to carry around, making them a good choice for activities like hiking or traveling. However, smaller binoculars may not provide the same level of brightness or clarity as larger models.

It’s worth noting that the size and weight of binoculars can also be influenced by other factors, such as the material used to construct them, the type of focusing mechanism, and additional features like image stabilization.

Interesting Comparison Of Size, weight and Designs of Various Top 7×50 and 8×56 Binoculars

Model	Weight	Design	Chassis	Length	Width	Depth
Celestron Cavalry 7×50	31.5oz / 893g	Porro Shape	Polycarbonate	5.8in / 14.7cm	7.8in / 19.8cm	3.2in / 8.1cm
Fujinon FMTRC-SX 7×50	51.5oz / 1460g	Porro Shape	Metal	7.8in / 19.8cm	8.6in / 21.8cm	9cm inc. compass
Bresser Pirsch ED 8×56	34.6oz / 981g	Open Bridge	Polycarbonate	6.5in / 16.5cm	5.8in / 14.7cm	2.6in / 6.6cm
Steiner Nighthunter 8×56	38.4oz / 1090g	Porro Shape	Polycarbonate	8.3in / 21.2cm	7.87in / 20cm	2.9in / 7.3cm
Vortex Razor UHD 8×56	43.5oz / 1233g	Top Hinge	Magnesium	6.8in / 17.2cm	5.3in / 13.5cm	2.4in / 6.1cm
Vortex Diamondback HD 8×56	36.8oz / 1044g	Top Hinge	Magnesium	7.4in / 18.8cm	5.7in / 14.5cm	–
Vortex Kaibab HD 18×56	43.5oz / 1233g	Single Hinge	Magnesium	7.7in / 19.6cm	5.7in / 14.5cm	–
Steiner HX 15×56	44.1oz / 1250g	Single Hinge	Polycarbonate	7.6in / 19.3cm	5.6in / 14.2cm	2.8in / 7.1cm
Vortex Razor UHD 18×56	41.6oz / 1179g	Top Hinge	Magnesium	8.3in / 21.2cm	6.1in / 15.5cm	–
Swarovski SLC 8×56	43.3oz / 1228g	Open Bridge	Magnesium	7.7in / 19.6cm	5.7in / 14.5cm	2.8in / 7.1cm

Magnification

Magnification is the number that comes first in the description of binoculars, such as 7×50 and 8×56. The first number represents the magnification power, and the second number represents the size of the objective lens in millimeters. The objective lens is the lens on the front of the binoculars that gathers light and forms the image.

If you are using 8x magnification binoculars, the object will appear eight times closer than it would with the naked eye. On the other hand, 7x magnification binoculars will make the object appear seven times closer.

When comparing 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars, the 8×56 model has a higher magnification power, making it appear closer and larger than the 7×50 model.

However, a higher magnification comes with some disadvantages.

One of the most significant drawbacks of higher magnification is that it reduces the field of view. The field of view is the width of the area visible through the binoculars. A higher magnification narrows the field of view, making it more difficult to track moving objects.

Another disadvantage of higher magnification is that it reduces image stability. Any small movement of your hand or body is magnified, making the image appear shaky and difficult to focus on. This can be a significant issue if you plan to use your binoculars for extended periods or in situations where you need to hold them steady.

On the other hand, lower magnification, such as 7x, provides a wider field of view, making it easier to locate and follow moving objects. The image stability is also better with lower magnification, making it easier to keep the object in focus.

Twilight Factor

Twilight factor is a measure of the amount of light that a binocular can gather in low-light conditions.

It is calculated by multiplying the magnification power by the objective lens size and taking the square root of the result. A higher twilight factor indicates that the binoculars can gather more light, making it easier to see objects clearly in low-light conditions.

The importance of twilight factor is particularly significant for activities such as hunting, birdwatching, and astronomy, which often require observation during dawn or dusk when lighting conditions are less than optimal. In these situations, the ability of binoculars to gather light can make a significant difference in the quality of the viewing experience.

When comparing the twilight factor of 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars, the 8×56 model has a higher twilight factor. This is because it has a larger objective lens, which allows it to gather more light than the 7×50 model.

As a result, the 8×56 model is better suited for low-light conditions, such as early morning or late evening.

One of the advantages of higher twilight factor is that it enhances the image quality in low-light conditions, making it easier to see details and colors. It is also more effective for activities such as hunting, birdwatching, and astronomy that require observation during dawn or dusk.

However, a higher twilight factor also comes with some disadvantages.

One of the primary concerns is that larger objective lenses can make binoculars heavier and bulkier. This can make it challenging to carry them around for extended periods or in situations where portability is essential.

Another disadvantage of higher twilight factor is that it can also be more expensive, making it less accessible to some users.

In contrast, lower twilight factor binoculars, such as the 7×50 model, are more affordable and easier to handle due to their lighter weight. They are also better suited for activities that take place in well-lit conditions.

Exit Pupil and Image Brightness

When it comes to choosing binoculars, the exit pupil size is an essential factor to consider.

The exit pupil is the size of the beam of light that exits the eyepiece of the binoculars. It is calculated by dividing the objective lens diameter by the magnification power.

A larger exit pupil size indicates that the binoculars can provide a brighter image in various light conditions.

When comparing the exit pupil size and image brightness of 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars, the 8×56 model has a larger exit pupil size and, therefore, produces a brighter image.

The 7×50 model has an exit pupil size of 7.1 mm, while the 8×56 model has an exit pupil size of 7 mm.

we can see, both are comfortable to use due to their large and almost equal exit pupil.

Also Check: Exit Pupil Vs Twilight Factor

If you go through the above article, you will be able to judge that if exit pupil is same, binoculars with a higher twilight factor are more preferred in low-light conditions. Therefore, In this case we see that 8×56 are having higher twilight factors so they can be perfect binoculars for use at dusk or dawn i.e in low light conditions.

Field Of View

A wider field of view allows you to see a broader area without moving your binoculars, making it easier to locate and track objects.

The field of view is crucial when using binoculars for activities such as birdwatching, nature observation, or hunting. A wider field of view enables you to scan large areas quickly and easily, making it easier to locate and identify objects. In contrast, a narrower field of view may require you to move your binoculars constantly, making it more challenging to track objects.

When comparing the field of view of 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars, the 7×50 model usually has a wider field of view.

A wide field of view is useful when observing wildlife, birdwatching, or hunting, where quick movements can be difficult to follow. A wider field of view can also provide a more immersive experience, allowing you to take in more of your surroundings.

Check Our Review Of Bushnell Marine 7×50 Binoculars

Also Check: Barska Deep Sea 7×50 Review

Eye Relief

Eye relief refers to the distance between the eyepiece lens and your eye at which you can still see the entire image.

This is an important factor to consider, especially for those who wear glasses. Binoculars with a longer eye relief allow eyeglass wearers to use the binoculars without having to remove their glasses, while still maintaining a clear and full view of the image.

In terms of eye relief, as per my experience, both have a typical eye relief of around 20-23mm(23mm like the Swarovski SLC 8×56). This means that both 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars are suitable for eyeglass wearers.

Which is More Comfortable For Glass Wearers, If you prefer one?

The huge exit pupil and comfortable eye relief in both 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars make them comfortable to use.

However, If you wear glasses, 8×56 binoculars with adjustable eyepieces are a better choice.

We have already seen that 8×56 binoculars usually comes with individual adjustable eyepieces while 7×50 binoculars are usually having fold-down eyepieces.

This makes the 7×50 a bit uncomfortable for glasses wearers because it takes around 10-20 seconds to pull them down, and also repeated use may damage the rubber.

Close Focus

The close focusing range refers to the minimum distance at which the binoculars can focus on an object and still provide a clear image. It is an important feature for those who want to observe objects at close range, such as flowers, insects, or birds.

In general, the close focusing range is determined by the design and optics of the binoculars, and it can vary depending on the model and brand.

When comparing 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars, it is worth noting that the latter typically have a shorter close focusing range.

This means that the 8×56 binoculars can focus on objects at a closer distance than the 7×50 binoculars, which can be useful for observing nearby objects such as insects, flowers, or other small objects.

Comparison of The price range of 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars

When it comes to price, there is typically a noticeable difference between 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars. Generally speaking, 8×56 binoculars tend to be more expensive than 7×50 binoculars due to their larger objective lens size.

In my experience, 7×50 binoculars prices start at 200-250$ to $450, while 8×56 binoculars can go up to 2,500$.

However, the price range for both types of binoculars can vary widely depending on factors such as brand, quality of materials and construction, and additional features such as waterproofing or image stabilization.

Also, High-quality optics with advanced coatings and precision engineering can significantly improve the image quality and overall performance of the binoculars, but this often comes with a higher price tag.

Additionally, other features such as waterproofing or fog proofing can add to the cost of the binoculars but may be essential for certain activities such as birdwatching or hunting.

A brand can also have a significant impact on the price of binoculars. Well-known and reputable brands often come with a higher price tag, but also offer a greater level of quality assurance and customer support.

What Should You Choose: 7×50 or 8×56 Binoculars

Here, we will compare the suitability of 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars for various uses.

Hunting:

When it comes to hunting, the ideal binoculars should provide a clear, bright image with a wide field of view, and should be durable and easy to use. Both 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars can be suitable for hunting, but the choice between the two will depend on personal preference.

8×56 binoculars offer a slightly larger objective lens, which means they can provide a brighter image in low light conditions, making them a good choice for dawn and dusk hunting.

However, 7×50 binoculars may be lighter and more compact, making them a more practical choice for hunting on foot.

Birdwatching:

Birdwatching requires binoculars that provide a clear, bright image with excellent color fidelity, and a wide field of view to track fast-moving birds.

Both 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars can be suitable for birdwatching.

8×56 binoculars are better suited for this activity at dawn and dusk due to their larger objective lens size, which provides a brighter image in low-light conditions.

Additionally, It creates a higher magnification to see details on the birds. However, a narrow field of view and the bulkier weight can be a disadvantage in the case of 8×56 binoculars.

Now 7x50s are best suited, if you do mostly birdwatching in daylight conditions and they are lighter than the 8×56 so you won’t be annoyed carrying them for longer periods.

Additionally, 7×50 binoculars offer a wider field of view, making them easier to use for birds in motion or quickly scan a large area to spot them.

Astronomy:

Astronomy binoculars should provide a clear, bright image with a high magnification power and a wide field of view.

While both 7×50 and 8×56 binoculars can be used for astronomy. Let’s see the suitability of each in detail;

Which One To Choose?

Using 7×50 binoculars for astronomy is a popular configuration because they provide a wide field of view, gather a good amount of light for night use, and are lightweight enough to be used without a tripod.

Additionally, the low 7x power helps to minimize image shake.

Stargazing with binoculars is more about enjoying wide views, navigating the night sky, and appreciating whole clusters and constellations rather than viewing single objects in fine detail. The wide views provided by the 7x magnification make it an advantage for this purpose.

On the other hand, 8×56 binoculars can offer some advantages over 7×50. They provide a bit more image detail and a slightly longer distance reach into space. They also have a better twilight factor, and with their large lenses and 7mm exit pupil, they can be a suitable option for handheld binocular astronomy.

In Summary, If wide views, easy navigation, and lightweight use are top priorities, then 7×50 binoculars would be the best choice. However, if slightly more image detail is desired, then 8×56 binoculars may be the better option.

Hiking and travel:

When it comes to hiking and travel, the ideal binoculars should be lightweight, compact, and durable. 7×50 binoculars are more practical due to their lighter weight and more compact size, which can make them easier to carry in a backpack or luggage.

Boating:

7×50 binoculars are a popular choice for boating because they offer a combination of features that make them well-suited for this activity.

Firstly, the 7x magnification provides a good balance between a wider field of view and good magnification. This makes it easier to spot and track boats, buoys, and other objects in the water, as well as marine wildlife.

Secondly, the 50mm objective lens provides good brightness and image quality, which is important when boating in low-light conditions, such as during sunrise or sunset. The larger objective lens also makes it easier to view objects at a distance, such as identifying a buoy or a distant shore.

Finally, the 7×50 binoculars are generally lightweight and easy to handle, which is important when boating or on the water. The lighter weight means that they are less likely to cause fatigue or strain when holding them for extended periods of time.

Surveillance:

7×50 binoculars can be a good choice for surveillance because of their wider field of view, which allows the user to view a larger area at once. This can be useful when tracking the movement of people or vehicles in a wider area. The 7x magnification also makes it easier to keep a steady view of the target, even if the user is moving.

However, 8×56 binoculars can also be used for surveillance, as they offer a higher magnification power, which can be helpful in situations where the target is farther away. They also have a larger objective lens, which allows more light to enter and provide a brighter image. This can be helpful in low-light conditions or when viewing targets from a distance.

An interesting video on 7×50 vs 8×56 binoculars

Also See: 7×50 Vs 10×50 Binoculars

Conclusion

Let me summarise the key takeaways from the article:

• 7×50 binoculars are mainly meant for marine and astronomy,
• While 8×56 binoculars are for twilight hunting, astronomy, surveillance
• The field of view is wider in 7×50 binoculars, while 8×56 binoculars are usually taller and heavier.
• Both are comfortable to use due to their large exit pupil.
• 8×56 offers a shorter close-focusing range and the 7×50 may have a slightly larger field of view.
• While 8×56 binoculars typically come with adjustable eyepieces, 7×50 binoculars often have fold-down eyepieces, making them less comfortable for glasses wearers.

if you are looking for all-around binoculars that perform well in low light conditions, then the 8×56 with the Abbe-Koenig prism would be the best choice. It offers great resolution and performs well in low light, making it suitable for hunting.

If you are a sailor 7×50 would be a good option for you.

Now,

The main difference is the price, with the 7×50 being a more affordable option it could be a good option if you are price-conscious.

Steiner 7×50 Binoculars Deal Till 12 October 2023($43 Off)

This binocular features high-contrast optics for vibrant images, 7x magnification, and a wide field of view. Its sports auto-focus ensures sharp images from 20 yards to infinity. It has a robust, shock-absorbing design, is waterproof, and comes with a Heritage Warranty for lifetime repair/replacement