Hutact vs Olympus binoculars?

July 24, 2019 12:42 PM

I'm a non-birdwatcher buying a pair of binoculars as a gift, and I'm a bit stuck. I was going to get the Olympus 8x40 dpsi - but have noticed that they don't seem to be fully coated and have BK7 rather than BK4 prisms. They are well reviewed , but I wonder if the brand is speaking. There is also a pair of HUTACT HTK-62, at 10x42, with seemingly better prisms, at a much lower price - but I'm not sure of the quality of product as I don't know the brand.

The HUTACT do have BK4 prisms (which are also roof rather than porro), and seem to be coated. I know nothing about the reputation of the brand, though, and about whether they are well made or will break easily, stand up to use, etc.

I don't go birdwatching myself, so any recommendations would be very appreciated! Thanks!!

posted by johnsohl to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (1 answer total)

For birdwatching your budget should honestly be more like $150. Audubon has a good guide for what to look for, including a shopping guide. One thing to check is the warranty; many have lifetime.

For a budget pair, I can vouch for the Celestron Nature DX. Preference varies a lot according to personal fit though, so ideally the recipient would pick them out themselves.
posted by veery at 1:13 PM on July 24, 2019