Wide angle binoculars are an excellent choice for beginners who are getting involved in wildlife or bird watching. Wide angle binoculars present a much wider image, making it easier to find the desired image when sighting with the binoculars. This not only makes them great for beginners, but also excellent for use in forested areas where it’s difficult to see too far in the distance. Wide angle binoculars are good for scanning areas to spot wildlife or movement. They are also the binocular of choice for sporting events or racing, since they more easily capture quick movement. If you are looking for wide panoramic views, this type of binocular is definitely the way to go.

When buying binoculars, be aware that the term “wide angle” is actually not a very scientific label. All it means is that the field of vision is wider than in regular binoculars. Width of the field can be measured in degrees or as a linear width in feet, measured at one thousand yards. The field of vision is measured by multiplying the angular field in degrees by the magnification, and binoculars are usually considered wide angle if this number is sixty or greater. Typically, the greater the magnification, the smaller the field of vision. This is why wide angle binoculars are best when you don’t need to see too far into the distance.

Be aware that some wide angle binoculars will look a little fuzzy or distorted around the edges. Be sure to invest in the best quality wide angle binoculars that you are able to, and avoid inexpensive, poorly made models. Also, these binoculars are typically not well suited for people who use eyeglasses, since with eyeglasses a longer eye relief is needed. Wide angle binoculars have a relatively short eye relief.