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History shows that binoculars come to form the concept of the telescope. However, telescopes and binoculars are different in several parameters. Both are useful as optical devices, but you should know where to use the telescope and where the bino pairs. Similarly, the purposes and working methodology is also different. However, the main differences between a telescope and a binocular are in the magnification, lens, working principle, field of view, size, weight, price range, and last but not least the use cases. In this article, I have discussed the topic of telescope vs binoculars. So, without any further delay, let’s jump into it.
Telescopes vs Binoculars: Key Differences
| Parameter | Telescope | Binoculars |
|---|---|---|
| Lens | Single view, Large, long range lens | Convex lenses, Dual view |
| Magnification | Up to 1000x | 4x to 60x |
| Focusing system | Long distance | Closer even 4 to 5 feet in distance |
| Field of view | Narrow and precise | Wide |
| Depth of view | Flat | 3D |
| Size | Bulkier | Portable and compact |
| Weight | Heavy, usually 1 to 2 kg | Lighter, .5lbs to 3lbs |
| Price Range | Higher than bino pairs, greater than $200 | Lower than telescope, even below $50 |
| Purposes / Use case | Astronomy, Stargazing | Bidring, hiking, hunting, wildlife viewing, spying, etc |
The telescope is an optical device that is mostly used by astronomers to observe long-distance objects like stars, the moon, etc. On the other hand, binoculars is a handheld device which is designed with 2 similar types of telescope. You will get a stereoscopic viewing experience of long-range objects. However, telescopes and binoculars both help us to see distant objects that we could not see with the naked eye.
But, the lens position, working method, field of view, size, purposes, and price range, these all factors are different for the 2 devices. If you know the differences, you can pick the right one based on the use case and other preferences. That’s why I have arranged all of these factors in this section. Take a closer look-
1. Working Method
The key difference between a telescope and binoculars is the working principle. Telescope has a curved mirror to collect lights and focus on the sky at night. That is why the generated view is single. On the other hand, two telescopes of binoculars provide you with a dual and 3D view. Every telescope has a lens in the front and a mirror is attached to its backside. The objective lens collects the light from the targeted objects and the mirror reflects this light into our eyes. As a result, we can see a 3D view of distant objects.
2. Lens Type
After that, the lens type is also different. Telescopes use the refracting lens. This type of lens can deliver magnified, clear, and appealing images of distant objects. However, Telescope lenses are also categorized into objective lenses and eyepieces. Binoculars come with convex lenses as aperture and eyepiece lenses.
The two types of prism attachment for erect the images. However, binoculars are designed with roof and Porro prisms. The roof prism binoculars are lightweight and compact. Provide clear and detailed images. The Porro prism binoculars are quite bulkier. But the zigzag pattern of the Porro prism makes images edge-to-edge sharp and bright.
3. Magnification
Again, you can distinguish the telescope and binoculars by their magnification power. Telescopes are usually higher magnified whereas binoculars have lower magnification capability than telescopes. Mainly, telescopes are designed with a minimum of 12x or 15x, where this range is quite a higher range for binoculars. However, both devices can have zoom properties. Telescopes can zoom up to 1000 times whereas binoculars can be 20x, or 30x, in some cases, it can be around 60x.
4. Field of view
As the relationship between the magnification and the field of view is opposite, it’s simple that you will get a wider field of view with binoculars. On the other hand, for higher magnification power, the telescope will provide a narrow field of view. However, telescopes can render a more precise view than binoculars.
5. Focusing System
Telescopes can focus on long-distance objects. Where the binoculars focusing system is limited even to 4 to 5 meters.
Note: Telescope needs more expertise to operate, whereas all with little knowledge about it can use the function of binoculars.
6. Size & Weight
After that, the size and weight of the telescope are generally heavier. You will get an idea of its focal length. The average focal length of binoculars is stated from 600mm to 20000mm. And, weight varies from 1-2 kg to even more. You must use a tripod to keep the telescope stable. In that case, binoculars are a more compact and portable choice. You will find binoculars even less than half a pound. Some are around 2-3 pounds, mostly the rangefinder and night vision binoculars.
7. Price Range
The price range varies based on the design materials, lens, prism, magnification power, and many more. However, the price range of telescopes is higher, whereas binoculars’ price range is mostly less than telescopes. In general, binoculars’ price range is less than $50 to $500 +. On the other hand, average telescopes start in the $200+ price range.
8. Best Use
As both are optical devices, the primary duty is almost the same. But they are used for different purposes too. Telescopes are mainly used by astronomers, scientists as well as some hobbyists. They have used telescopes instead of binoculars to observe outer space. Also, they can see the stars, planners, galaxies, moon, and endless objects in the sky. On the other hand, binoculars are used by nature enthusiasts for various purposes. As the magnification power is moderate and the size is compact, people love to use it in hiking, hunting, birding, spying, target shoring, wildlife viewing, whale watching, etc.
Advantages of Telescope
- Offers higher magnification power
- More detailed and sharp view
- Can provide clear and bright images in dark
Cons of Telescope
- Can’t provide a dual view
- Heavy and bulky
Advantages of Binoculars
- Offers moderate magnification for regular activities
- Can operate by kids to adult
- Provide a wider field of view with 3D images
Cons of Binoculars
- Can’t observe too longer-range objects
Final Verdict: Which one is best for you?
After the entire discussion about telescope vs binoculars, hopefully, you can get the main differences. So, which one is for you? If you love to enjoy nature with handheld devices, you should go for binoculars. You will get a full view of your target. If you are a hobbyist or astronomer, a telescope is an important tool to observe what happens in the sky.
People Also Ask
Are binoculars better than a telescope?
It depends on your purposes. Binoculars are good for daily activities like enjoying sporting events, hiking, hunting, wildlife viewing, etc. On the other hand, a telescope is a great tool for astronomers and scientists.
Are telescopes good for bird watching?
No. Instead of a telescope, you can go for a binocular for birding. Most of the birds can be seen using 8x to 10x magnification. So, binoculars are better for birding rather than telescopes.
Can I see with a telescope during the day?
Of course. You can use a telescope during the day to observe distant objects. You can see the sun and Solar system planets with your telescope in daylight.
