The 5 Stabilized Binoculars that Will Give You the Most Bang for Your Buck

Before we even get into a discussion about the best stabilized binoculars, you should know that a quality pair is going to cost you at least a grand. Not including tax. Just make your peace with it. If you want quality, you have to pay for quality. I've listed the best image-stabilized binoculars out there. If you want something cheap, you'll probably come to the conclusion that you don't really need them at all.

The Canon Image Stabilizer 10x42 L IS

These stabilized binoculars look really cool which, let's be honest, is important. But, more important is the nifty features. These bad boys come equipped with a 42mm objective-diameter lens which allows more light in than most of the other models out there on the market and work really well in medium to low light. And the 6.5 degree field of view makes this pair the easiest on the eyes and great for astronomers. Which is probably why they clock in at around $1600, which includes a nifty carrying case.

Nikon StabilEyes VR 12x42

These guys have a much smaller lens, which means that astronomers will want to stick with the Canon 10x42. However, what they lack in low light visibility, they make up for everywhere else. As a matter of fact, their stabilization outflanks the Canon and they are super user friendly, stabilizing with the click of a prominently placed button. Plus, they come with a pause feature that allows you to return to a normal view without having to completely exit the stabilizing mode. Again, the Canon beats them in field of vision (the Nikon only allows 5 degrees) but they are about $300 cheaper.

Bushnell Stableview

I like the Bushnell because it packs a lot of punch in a small package. These stabilized binoculars are able to withstand a ridiculous amount of shaking and shenanigans and maintain a stable image. These 10x35s have a thumb switch which is easy to use, and two stabilization modes: bumpy ride and earthquake. Plus, they fit more snugly on your face than the previous two brands. And the fact that at $600 they're the cheapest stabilized binoculars on our list so far is just icing on the cake.

Newcon Optik 20x60

I giggle every time I look at my Newcon Optik's. They are one of the only models in the world which provide a resolution of 3 angular seconds in stabilization mode which is about 5 times better than their closest competition. And, because of their high tech stabilizing methods, these guys don't need batteries. And with a 60mm lens, you know they work really well in limited light. You can't dunk them underwater like the Fujinon, but they are weatherproof and come with a pretty sturdy case. They'll run you a little over $1000, and they're well worth the price.

Fujinon Techo-Stabi 14x40

These binoculars are hard core. At 14x40, they out perform even the Bushnell in stabilization, and they can withstand all sorts of abuse. They're especially great for boating enthusiast because they're not only waterproof, but can survive a dunk underwater. Although, that's not going to help you if you loose them over the side of your boat. However, if said boat is parked in your driveway, you're okay. These bad boys are in a heavy duty carrying case and can withstand a 50 foot drop. As a matter of fact, the only downsize is that they're pretty heavy (43oz). But that's a small price to pay for their performance value and a $999 price tag.