GoBirding is preparing to enter the smart optics space with the Vision Master Smart AI Spotting Scope, a new all-in-one birding device that combines long-range observation, 4K imaging, subject tracking, and AI-powered bird identification in a lightweight handheld design - and to me, that sounds awesome!

The Vision Master, model APL-ETF-M1, is being billed as the world’s first professional AI-powered smart spotting scope and camera, and also the first spotting scope with native hardware AI.

Designed for birders, wildlife watchers, and outdoor creators, it aims to replace the traditional combination of scope, camera, phone, field guide, and notebook with a single connected device.

At the heart of the Vision Master is its AI bird identification system, which uses both on-device and cloud recognition. GoBirding says the scope can identify more than 1,500 bird species offline, with that expanding to more than 10,000 species when connected through the companion app. Sightings can also be automatically recorded, helping users build and manage their own personal bird encyclopedia over time.

The optical and imaging specifications are equally ambitious. The Vision Master offers 30x optical zoom and up to 120x hybrid zoom, giving users the reach needed for distant subjects, while 4K/30fps video, high-resolution stills, slow-motion, and time-lapse modes bring it closer to a dedicated imaging tool.

Hardware optical image stabilization is also included, which should make handheld observation far more usable at longer focal lengths than software-only stabilization systems.

GoBirding has also built in intelligent autofocus with real-time subject tracking, designed to help keep birds sharp and centered even when they are moving. The wider ecosystem is handled through a dedicated app, which brings together bird maps, data management, social sharing, and encyclopedia tools. Wi-Fi and cellular dual-link support should also make it easier to share images and sightings from the field, even when birding in more remote locations.

Battery life is rated at up to six hours of continuous use or 72 hours on standby, with fast charging and external power bank support for longer days outdoors. Backed by 15 years of optical research and development through Apexel, the GoBirding Vision Master Smart AI Spotting Scope is expected to launch on August 31, 2026, with pricing currently listed between $699 and $999, though the expected retail price is also being quoted at $699 to $799 depending on configuration and bundle options.

Zeiss has launched its latest spotting scope, the Conquest Apia 65, a lightweight and compact optical device designed for wildlife enthusiasts on the go.

Coming in as a mid-tier-priced scope but touted to feature high-end optics, Zeiss puts forward the Conquest Apia 65 as an affordable solution to the tradeoff between optical quality and compact design when it comes to the most portable spotting scopes.

The second model in the Conquest series, the Apia 65 features a 65mm lens diameter which Zeiss claims achieves an 87% light transmission rate, closely rivaling its big brother scope, the Conquest Gavia 85, itself boasting an 88% light transmission rate.

Touted to have a “HD optical system” made up of aspherical elements and extra-low dispersion glass, the Apia 65 should deal with aberrations well while enabling you to see both a wide view and the finer details thanks to a 20-50x zoom range.

Zeiss has coated the Apia 65 lens with its proprietary LotuTec, which creates a hydrophobic and oleophobic layer for maintaining optimal performance in adverse conditions.

Bolstering durability is the magnesium and aluminum housing, with the entire device measuring 11.7inches and weighing 47.5oz.

Although not the shortest nor lightest higher-end compact spotting scope on the market, it still looks like the Apia 65 is set to give its smaller and more premium competitors, notably the Swarovski ATC 17-40x56, a good run for their money and at a much lower price.

The Swarovski ATC 17-40x56, which measures 10 inches, weights 43oz and achieves 88% light transmission, but costs around $2,900 / £2,150, while the Zeiss Conquest Apia 65 comes in at around $1,700 / £1,275.

With the release of the Conquest Apia 65, Zeiss continues its efforts to meet the growing demand for lightweight, smaller spotting scopes that don't sacrifice optical quality while keeping ergonomics in mind.

You can buy the Zeiss Conquest Apia 65 at major photography retailers including B&H Photo (US), Park Cameras (UK) and London Camera Exchange (UK).

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See how the Zeiss Conquest Apia 65 compares to other kits available by reading our expert guide to the best spotting scopes.

Chief boast for the Leica Televid HD spotting scope is not just best-in-class performance, but, according to the German brand, ‘the world’s highest image brightness’. A bold claim indeed. Available with either 65mm or 82mm objective lenses – I had the latter to look at – it’s the baby brother to Leica’s APO-Televid series.

That line-up likewise offers 65mm or 82mm optics. Theoretically, the bigger the lens, the more light let in, and the sharper and brighter the view. So I’m expecting the Leica Televid HD 82 to be a good option for when natural light isn’t in my favour.

The scope differentiates itself further via a current kit that sees it twinned with a 20-60x magnification eyepiece, set at a comfortable-to-view 45° angle when screwed into place. That’s the option I had to test here.

The German-designed, Portugal-manufactured Televid HD 65 and 82 duo is priced slightly more competitively than its simultaneously announced APO-Televid 65 and 82 scopes. But it’s not cheaper by much. The close naming convention means it’s easy to mix them up when researching online, and indeed, a couple of Leica’s own sites we visited listed one product but carried the specification for the other.

Whichever option we go for, we do so in the knowledge that Leica products command a premium – and here’s where we start paying.

So, ultimately, is the Leica Televid HD 82 worth the big investment that its sizeable 82mm objective lens requires, whether for wildlife watching, digiscoping or star gazing? Read on to find out.

Leica Televid HD 82: Specifications

Leica Televid HD 82: Price

Unveiled in July 2025, at a core unit cost of £1900 / $2469 without eyepiece, the Televid HD 82 scope is fair value compared to the £2500 / $3239 suggested for the simultaneously released APO-Televid 82 from the same manufacturer.

If we don’t need such a large objective lens, then the alternative of the equally new Televid HD 65, is a better value than both. After all, it costs the same, including the 20-60x eyepiece I had on test, as the 82mm model does without it.

That said, a £2420 / $3129 combined cost for adding the 20-60x eyepiece to the Televid HD 82 looks less eye watering when contrasted with the £3140 / $4069 being asked for the APO-Televid 82 with the smaller magnification 25-50x eyepiece at the time of writing.

As ever, you pay your money and make your choice. But do shop around to find the best current deals that may even out the original price difference.

Leica Televid HD 82: Design & Handling

Manufactured in Leica’s Portugal facility, the slightly more affordable Televid HD 82 is being sold on its class-leading light gathering ability when compared to Leica’s pricier APO-Televid; the pitch for the latter being its stated ability to deliver the highest degree of detail in its class.

The Televid HD 82 is also slightly lighter than its premium APO series brethren at 1505g, compared with 1550g, but to my mind feels no less robust because of it. Both scopes boast die-cast magnesium, nitrogen-filled construction to avoid any fogging, and are claimed to be watertight to a depth of five metres, so using them in the rain is not a potential issue.

In hand, the device immediately feels chunky and weighty, thanks to that large 82mm lens. Still, I managed to squeeze it into a small-ish backpack for transporting it to the park for some wildlife observation. I also took a portable tripod with me, as I knew the size and weight of this unit would make additional support and stabilisation a must.

Plus, I found that the angled eyepiece means that viewing is simply more comfortable from an upright, standing position when the scope is tripod-mounted. A tripod foot is integrated into the base of the unit, so quickly attaching or detaching it from a tripod plate is possible.

As with the APO-Televid models, the Televid HD 82 features a dual focus system, with a large, ridged, centrally located dial for ergonomically finding focus. Adjacent to this, we also get a smaller dial for fine-tuning sharpness, if needed, which does appear to make a slight difference. I found my forefinger intuitively settling on these dials, while my eye remained glued to the eyepiece and my attention on the subject under observation. Closest focus distance is 3.9 metres when paired with the Leica Vario 20-60x eyepiece I had to use on test, but given the maximum magnification at my fingertips, I was using the scope for subjects much further away.

Leica Televid HD 82: Performance

Leica claims the 20-60x Vario eyepiece, itself weighing 370g, allows for zeroing in on smaller subjects and details than its current 25-50x alternative, which, by contrast, delivers a larger field of view. If a 60x magnification isn’t quite enough, however, then an optional 1.8x Leica Extender can help achieve up to a 108x magnification. Adapters are also available for those who want to take photos via the scope, aka ‘digiscoping’, to suit various Leica and third-party cameras, as well as smartphones.

Best practice I found when using the Leica Televid HD 82 and eyepiece was starting out at the 20x setting to first locate my subject in the wild, and then gradually working my way through the settings to arrive at maximum 60x. While at 20x magnification, I was able to get the full body of a deer in the frame along with its nearest neighbour, at 60x I was able to make out flies on the face of the animal; its head fully filling my view through the eyepiece.

One thing I did notice when using the Televid HD 82, which I failed to find any instance of when previously playing with the Leica APO-Televid 65, was occasional flashes of purple fringing between areas of high contrast. For example, dark green leaves against an almost featureless sky. Here, such a jagged outline displayed distinct purplish edges at maximum magnification.

Its manufacturer boasts that even at maximum magnification, this scope can deliver bright, sharp, and high contrast images with neutral, natural colours. But to be picky, I could have done with more contrast at the highest 60x eyepiece setting to really snap key details and markings sharply into focus. For example, it would have aided identification when attempting to pick out a smaller bird of prey nestled among the branches and foliage of a tree in Richmond Park and determine whether it was a sparrowhawk or a rarer merlin. In my head, I settled on the latter, but a degree of detail beyond what this Leica was giving me would have helped me clearly decide.

Leica Televid HD 82: Verdict

You’ll be considering the Televid HD 82 if you want a premium Leica spotting scope that delivers a large 82mm objective lens for maximum light gathering, yet one that remains manageably portable. At the same time, it’s one that saves us a few groats over the cost of its maker’s APO-Televid version. Performance is impressive, though instances of purple fringing suggest that the APO-Televid alternative is the one to go for if such artefacts prove an issue for you. Respectable and competent, rather than awe-inspiring, is my conclusion here.

Alternatives

If we don’t want to pay a king’s ransom for the Leica Televid HD 82 with an optional 20-60x zoom eyepiece, there is a plethora of alternatives when it comes to spotting scopes, which means we don’t have to.

As mentioned in my review of the very similar, if pricier APO-Televid 65, companies including Celestron and Bushnell boast very good value and surprisingly well-made alternatives if you don’t covet that bright red Leica signature roundel.

While it’s not as critically sharp to my eyes as this Leica example, the mid-priced Bushnell 20-60x65 Prime scope offers plenty of bang for the buck. With a similar ruggedized look and feel to Leica, the Bushnell offers a zoom range of 20-60x alongside a decent-sized 65mm objective lens too.

Theoretically, providing a brighter view still is the Celestron Ultima 100. Here we get a generous 100mm objective lens married to a generous 22-66x zoom range. The only downside, once again, is that a bigger lens often means a heavier product overall, at 2Kg for the Celestron. However, pair it with a tripod and it’s another fairly-priced alternative.

However, my favourite recommendation for a close alternative to this Leica is probably the Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85. Yes, we again pay a premium price, but for the outlay we get a superior 85mm objective lens plus a comprehensive 30-60x zoom range, at a reasonable weight of 1.7kg combined. If you can stump up the cash, the quality and clarity of the Zeiss is nothing short of exceptional, making it a true rival to the Leica Televid HD 82.

Post pandemic, there’s been an uptick in interest in telescopes and their typically more compact and manageable brethren, the spotting scope.

The Leica APO-Televid 65 is the latter; another premium look and feel professional-grade scope for nature and low-light observation.

Worth focusing on here is a generous 65mm objective lens, with a 45° angled eyepiece providing the opportunity to vary magnification between 25-50x. Simultaneously released by Leica is an 82 model incorporating an 82mm lens for those who want to go larger, and theoretically brighter, still, though there’s additional weight with it. The alternative for either model is a further eyepiece option offering 20x to 60x magnification for an extended reach.

Like anything Leica, impressive features and top-tier positioning mean the APO-Televid 65 arrives with a large-ish price tag. But in return, we get German design, optical excellence, a sturdy build, razor-sharp close-ups from a distance, a large field of view, and more unusually still, not one but two focus wheels for fine-tuning image sharpness.

Should photographers want to get more creative still and attach a Q-series full-frame camera, or even a smartphone, to indulge in the art of digiscoping, optional adapters are available from Leica and Ollin, respectively. Leica also offers a compatible 35mm digiscoping lens to allow use of its SL and M system cameras.

So, is the Leica APO-Televid 65 a scope that those wanting a serious observational tool should make a point of looking into? Read on to find out.

Leica APO-Televid 65: Specifications

Leica APO-Televid 65: Price

Unveiled in July 2025, the Leica APO-Televid 65 with 65mm objective lens arrives alongside an 82mm alternative, plus two further identical lenses incorporating Televid-HD models, sitting just below its APO-Televid duo. While the Leica APO-Televid 65 is by no means inexpensive, the cost here includes the 25-50x zoom eyepiece, with the option to buy without. Given this, it’s less of a shock to anyone looking for a premium-end, portable scope with that familiar Leica red button logo. Plus, there’s the slightly more affordable Televid HD 65 if I want a comparable specification but can live without its sibling’s top-tier optical quality.

As ever, I’d take the above prices as a guide only. An online search while undertaking this review indicated some sizeable savings to be had over the manufacturer’s own suggested price on this spotting scope kit, if shopping around independent retailers.

Leica APO-Televid 65: Design & Handling

As I’d expect from anything made by Leica, its nitrogen-filled, magnesium construction APO-Televid 65 scope feels sleek yet sturdy when gripped in the palm.

There’s a tripod foot provided at the base for additional stabilisation, or otherwise this premium, rubber-exterior scope requires two-handed use. The right hand can be used for adjusting magnification and fine-tuning focus, via the larger and smaller focus dials, respectively, while the left hand cradles the front end of the scope.

Alternatively, of course, this scope can be set on a tripod, which will be a preferable option for extended observation periods, especially as the 25-50x eyepiece I was using adds another 435g to the overall weight.

The size and heft at 1.2Kg without eyepiece mean that while I could fit it in my messenger-style sling bag at a pinch, a small backpack proves a more suitable means of transportation.

I’m told from a glance at the spec sheet that front and rear lens caps are provided upon purchase, though the front cap was missing from my sample. Still, the extended, adjustable lens hood helps shield the front glass to an extent.

As a scope designed for use in the great outdoors, the Leica APO-Televid 65’s lens elements feature what it terms ‘AquaDura’ coating, an anti-reflective, anti-static, dust-resistant coating that’s water and dirt repellent.

Furthermore, this model’s construction claims to be watertight to a depth of five metres. I only encountered light rain/drizzle during my test period, so I cannot attest to its performance in such extreme circumstances. But it does provide extra peace of mind, backed up by the fact that the housing here is nitrogen purged and thus fog-proofed. Pretty standard stuff, expected at this price.

Leica APO-Televid 65: Performance

I used this scope on dim, overcast, and bright, sun-kissed days. Compared with Leica’s simultaneously re-jigged and released 65mm and 82mm Televid-HD models, which sit below the 65mm and 82mm APO-Televid scopes in its current line-up, this ‘APO’ example promises what its maker describes as the very lowest level of colour fringing.

In practice, it’s so minimal that I was hard pressed to spot any at all between areas of high contrast, even at the maximum 50x magnification provided by the eyepiece, which is a big positive. This model also promises Leica’s highest image quality and sharpness, whereas the Televid HD alternative instead promises the best brightness for its class.

The sharpness via the supplied 25-50x WW ASPH eyepiece certainly makes it a decent option for nature and wildlife observers. I found I was able to clearly make out specific markings on animals and wildfowl from afar, thanks to its 440mm equivalent focal length. Alternatively, ‘close’ focus is down to a respectable 2.9 metres.

While the view through this scope is impressively sharp if the device is considered standalone, to my eyes it’s not quite as crystal clear as the view provided by a rival top-end brand also known for optical excellence, such as Swarovski or Zeiss, even when tripod mounted. In fairness, that’s being quite picky. A chunky, sliding lens hood on the Leica helps keep rain off the glass and avoid any possible lens flare – not something I encountered either.

Although inevitably there is some image ‘judder’ visible at the base 25x level of magnification when hand holding this scope, it’s not to an off-putting or uncomfortable degree. However, as we rotate the magnification ring through the incrementally marked 30x, 40x, and 50x settings, our view through the eyepiece gets incrementally wobblier with it, without additional support.

If buying this for the 50x setting, then best to invest in a tripod to go with it. Luckily, Leica has brought out an optional carbon fibre tripod of its own alongside this very model, featuring a fluid video head. That said, my 20-year-old Velbon tripod did the job just as well.

In practice, the APO-Televid 65’s rigid magnification ring is so stiff that it requires a bit of elbow grease to turn; it’s not a control that will be accidentally jogged in the process of fetching the scope out of a bag. In other words, precise adjustments can be slowly made, as desired, in the process of observing and attempting to track our visual quarry.

The angled view provided through the attached eyepiece makes for more comfortable viewing, especially if using the scope mounted on a tripod, which also avoids visible judder at the maximum 50x zoom setting. Obviously, the more you zoom in, the narrower the field of view, so I found it best to first broadly locate my subject in the landscape and then adjust magnification for a closer look.

Leica APO-Televid 65: Verdict

A decent sized 65mm objective lens coupled with the ability to adjust magnification from a useful 25x to a generous 50x makes the APO-Televid 65 scope with 25-50x WW ASPH zoom eyepiece suitable for observing a wide variety of subjects, while the angled eyepiece aids comfort for prolonged periods – especially if I’ve got the scope tripod mounted, so can merely bend my neck to observe rather than crouching down.

Artefacts such as purple fringing between areas of high contrast did not prove an issue for me – in fact I struggled to find any at all – and, while sharpness may not match the performance of glass from the likes of Swarovski or Zeiss, taken as a standalone product the Leica APO-Televid 65 scope is impressive indeed and should endure years of faithful use.

Alternatives

Spotting scopes offer an increased magnification compared to their closest sibling, the monocular, while being less cumbersome than a telescope, their popularity ensuring there are a range of attractive alternative options out there if we don’t want to pay a premium for the Leica APO-Televid with optional 25-50x WW ASPH zoom eyepiece.

While they may not be as critically sharp as the Leica example here, to my eyes, Bushnell and Celestron offer tried and tested and typically great value for money scopes. For instance, there’s the mid-priced Bushnell 20-60x65 Prime scope. As it sounds, this offers adjustable magnification of between 20-60x alongside a large 65mm objective lens. It also has a similar ruggedized shape, look, and feel to the Leica example here.

Offering more power than the Bushnell and a brighter view still is the Celestron Ultima 100, its suffix referring to a 100mm lens size, suggesting a perfect choice for stargazers or lower light observation, when wedded to a generous 22-66x zoom range. Weighing 2Kg it is less portable, but that isn’t an issue if using it tripod mounted for longer periods of observation, whether our subjects are wildlife or the heavens above. Another very fairly priced choice.

More manageable in terms of size and 590g weight, as indicated by the bird that inspired its name, is the Celestron Hummingbird 9-27x56 ED scope. Yes, its lowest magnification level at 9x puts it on a par with a bog-standard monocular. But the camera-adaptable design still allows for digiscoping, and at maximum 27x magnification, its performance is more than respectable.

The above being said, probably the closest to the construction, performance, and price of our Leica option here, and my near namesake, is the Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85. This sturdy, premium offering boasts a powerful 30-60x magnification plus the bright beauty that is its 85mm objective lens, at 1.7Kg, all-in. If you can cope with the weight and the price, the reward is exceptional clarity for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and astronomers looking to bring the faraway up close and personal.

Leica Sport Optics has unveiled two new lines of spotting scopes that redefine excellence in outdoor observation.

Designed for birders, naturalists and field researchers who demand absolute clarity and detail, the new Leica APO-Televid and Leica Televid HD models combine premium materials with unrivalled optical performance.

This is Leica precision applied to the world of long-distance viewing – whether you’re studying subtle plumage in soft dawn light or tracking wildlife at dusk.

At the top of the range sits the Leica APO-Televid, which delivers exceptional image sharpness and virtually no color fringing – even in demanding conditions. It’s made for those who won’t compromise on image fidelity, especially when detail matters most.

The Leica Televid HD, meanwhile, brings the brightest viewing experience in its class, ensuring crystal-clear vision even as daylight fades. Both lines feature Leica’s new High Lux Pro (HLP) system, which produces stunning color neutrality, high brightness, and maximum contrast, even in low-light conditions.

Each model is available in both 65mm and 82mm variants with an angled eyepiece design. They feature Leica’s signature dual-focus system for silky-smooth adjustments and are housed in robust yet lightweight magnesium bodies, designed to withstand life in the field while delivering comfort and elegance.

Two interchangeable Vario eyepieces are available: the wide-angle 25–50x WW Asph, ideal for sweeping views, and a new 20–60x option for those looking to push magnification to the limit.

For photographers, Leica has taken digiscoping to new heights. A new range of accessories includes a Leica Q adaptor, facilitating full-frame imaging directly through the spotting scope, as well as a 35mm digiscoping lens for SL, M and other system cameras.

The magnetic Ollin smartphone adaptor makes capturing the moment fast and seamless, while the Leica Fotos app offers instant wireless editing and sharing. It’s a complete system that puts creative freedom in your hands, whether you shoot with a camera or a phone.

Leica rounds off the package with a suite of field-ready extras, including an elegant yet rugged carbon fiber tripod with fluid video head, a 1.8x extender for extra reach and a tough Cordura ever-ready case tailored for harsh environments.

These new spotting scopes are more than just precision tools – they're designed to deepen your connection with the wild. These are now available worldwide, with prices starting at $3,209 / £1,900 (Australian pricing to be confirmed) for the Leica Televid HD 65 kit.

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For more Red Dot excellence in your imaging, take a look at the best Leica cameras along with the best Leica M lenses for rangefinders and the best Leica SL lenses for mirrorless.

Kite Optics has unveiled the world's first spotting scope with built-in image stabilization. The APC 60 ED offers unparalleled stability and precision in a handheld device, making a tripod unnecessary. It is sure to be welcomed by nature enthusiasts and will undoubtedly become one of the best spotting scopes on the market.

The scope stabilizes images throughout its detachable viewfinder's 17x to 35x magnification range, enabling extended use without the discomfort of hand fatigue or the distraction of shaky views. An integrated Li-Ion battery lasts for more than 30 hours of viewing. Kite Optics claims that the stabilized image not only benefits from enhanced clarity but also appears brighter and more defined compared to a regular spotting scope or binoculars without stabilization.

,A premium ED (Extra-low Dispersion) optical system is designed to deliver unmatched clarity, sharpness, and vibrant color reproduction. With a lightweight and compact build, the spotting scope tips the scales at just 1,100 grams, making it supremely portable and easy to use.

The APC 60 ED has been built to withstand the toughest outdoor conditions, with its robust construction and IPX7 water resistance rating, ensuring the scope remains operational when exposed to rain or even a brief submersion in water.

The Kite Optics APC 60 ED spotting scope will be available in February 2025, and will sell for £1,999 with the 17-35x finder. It will also be available body only, for those who already have a suitable Kite eyepiece.

Check out our guides to the best image-stablized binoculars

Kowa has launched two new spotting scopes, the TSN-55A and TSN-55S Prominar, which balance optical performance and lightweight construction. The TSN-55A is an angled version for those looking for a true spotting scope experience, but for those wanting a more streamlined solution, then the TSN-55S is the best option, especially if you're looking to mount your mirrorless camera for digiscoping.

These scopes are crafted with Kowa's exclusive Prominar pure fluorite crystal, designed to deliver clarity and color fidelity. It’s the latest addition to the esteemed Prominar series, known for its premium quality and exceptional optical performance.

At the heart of the new TSN-55 series is a 55mm pure fluorite crystal lens. This advanced material is renowned for eliminating chromatic aberration, resulting in vivid, sharp, and true-to-life visuals. 

Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or a nature enthusiast exploring expansive landscapes, the TSN-55 scopes promise to bring every detail into focus with accuracy.

A standout feature of the TSN-55 design is its portability. Measuring only 255mm in length and weighing a mere 965 grams, this spotting scope is designed for ease of transport without compromising image quality. Its compact size belies the power it holds within, making it an ideal companion for both serious and casual observers on the go.

The new TSN-55 varients integrate Kowa’s TE-11WZ II wide-angle zoom eyepiece, which provides an impressive 17-40x magnification range. This eyepiece enhances the field of view by up to 52% compared to the previous models like the TSN-550, ensuring that you won’t miss any of the action. The seamless integration of the eyepiece into the scope's body maintains its compact form while offering expansive views.

Equipped with a dual-focus system, the TSN-55 allows for rapid and precise focusing adjustments, perfect for quickly adapting to changing scenes. The ergonomic design includes a smooth twist sunshade, a versatile tripod mount, and a filter thread for added protection. These features ensure that users can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free viewing experience.

The TSN-55 is designed for durability and reliability, featuring a fully sealed, nitrogen-filled body that is both waterproof and resilient against harsh environmental conditions. Kowa’s KR coating on the objective lens repels water and dirt, ensuring clear views in any weather.

For those interested in digiscoping, the TSN-55 is the ultimate tool. It easily attaches to smartphones, DSLRs, or mirrorless cameras via Kowa’s smart adapters, transforming the scope into a compact telephoto system capable of capturing stunning long-range nature photographs.

The Kowa TSN-55 Prominar spotting scopes are set to start shipping in July 2024. Both the TSN-55A and TSN-55S models are priced at $2,229.

See our guides to the best spotting scopes and the best monoculars

It’s our experience that the Celestron brand can be relied upon for delivering a good value, quality-made product. And while, when it comes to the best spotting scopes, it may not always offer the sharpest around, it nevertheless hits its intended price point with very little in the way of compromise.

We’d wager the same will prove true of the Celestron Ultima 100, so named because of its generous, class-leading 100mm objective lens. In theory, this not only enables us observers to view wildlife on land but to also reach for the stars and enjoy a spot of astronomy on the side. So, in effect, what we’re getting here is an affordable telescope and spotting scope in one.

Specifications

Magnification: 22x-66x
Objective lens diameter: 100mm
Field of view at 1000 yards: 94-52 feet
Closest focusing distance: 33ft
Eye relief: 18mm
Weight: 2.04 Kg
Dimensions: 22x7x7-inches

Key Features

As we’d expect, given that the Celestron Ultima 100 spotting scope is intended for both wildlife watching and stargazing at long distances, the construction is both fog-proof and waterproof, while featuring multi-coated optics for optimum light transmission. 

Suggesting itself as a jack of all trades, the magnification range on the provided screw-on eyepiece runs from a respectable 22x, at which it should be possible to achieve wobble-free viewing, to a generous 66x, meaning a tripod will be a must. Given the size of the scope itself, we’d recommend investing in a sturdy tripod – luckily we already owned one that can handle a DSLR and telephoto lenses for photography, and that provided perfectly stable support here.

Build & Handling

The cleverly attractive design of the Celestron Ultima 100 spotting scope actually makes it look sleek and streamlined, despite being a chunky beast that requires some minor assembly straight out of the box before we can begin using it.

The assembly bit involves attaching the provided extendable tripod adapter, which is simply screwed into place at the base. The 22-inch length of the scope itself, broadly mirroring the distance between our hip bone and our knee cap, means that a tripod is an essential extra purchase if we don’t already own one. There’s no way we’ll be attempting to use the scope handheld this time. 

All that being said the scope is lighter than its solid build and robust looks suggest. A soft carry bag is provided out of the box that allows us to sling the scope over our shoulder. We also get a lens cloth and a printed copy of the manual.

The provided zoom eyepiece is inserted at a standard 45° angle, although a straight eyepiece version of this scope is also available, this eyepiece needs to be fixed into position before we can start using it. This again is simply screwed into place by hand. Markings on the eyepiece barrel reveal the range of magnification settings on offer, which run between a minimum of 22x, at which it’s just about possible to achieve a judder free image without a tripod, and a maximum of 66x. 

A protective slip-on rubber cap is provided for the eyepiece, while a large hard plastic clip-on lens cap protects the lens when the scope’s being transported or is otherwise not in use. It did fall off within the carry bag a couple of times when we were using it, so there’s the likelihood that this and the small eyepiece cap could get misplaced over time.

Performance

The 45° angled eyepiece on our review sample, as opposed to the alternative of a straight eyepiece, proves ideal for those of us who want to comfortably observe from a standing position when the scope is tripod mounted. Altering magnification to suit our intended subject is as simple as a twist of said eyepiece, while the focus knob halfway down the body of the scope is large and obvious enough that adjustments can be made intuitively in real-time while our eye remains glued to the eyepiece so as to not lose our intended visual quarry. 

In terms of sharpness, we’d suggest the Celestron Ultima 100 is sharp enough for keen amateur use, though the optical quality is obviously not up to the level of rival Zeiss and Leica optics costing several times as much. Used to view the Moon at night, we were able to see the grey markings and scars on its surface, while during the daytime we happily did not notice much in the way of chromatic aberration. Viewing birds on the branches of a tree against the sky, our view was free from the normal telltale purple fringing visible in some budget optics where the edges of the branches meet said sky.

Verdict

The Celestron Ultima 100 spotting scope may be big, but it’s not without beauty – and, in looking for a scope with plentiful light-gathering capability, we really do feel here that we’re getting a lot for our money. With the ability to achieve close-up details of birds and even pull the Moon closer all within the one device, this is a flexible tool for any wildlife watcher and nature lover who has wanted to expand their horizons, achieve satisfying results, and not have to spend a fortune to do it either. 

Yes, there may be sharper alternatives out there, but they cost many more times the price of this all-encompassing observational tool. Good value, good results – there is very little here we can reasonably take issue with at an amateur or enthusiast level.

Read more:

• The best spotting scopes
• Best binoculars
• Best budget binoculars under $100
• The best monoculars in 2021
• The best night vision goggles and binoculars 

If all we’ve been used to in the past is a pair of binoculars or their lighter-weight monocular alternative, then the Celestron Regal M2 65ED spotting scope will feel properly heavy-duty by comparison. The length of our elbow, forearm, and hand combined, it’s a chunky beast, even if it is more compact than the average telescope. 

Intended for wildlife watchers and nature lovers, this heavy-duty scope can be handily fixed to a tripod, which given the size, weight, and magnification on offer here, is an essential extra purchase. Not only does mounting the scope keep both our hands free for adjusting focus and angle of view, but it also helps deliver smooth and judder-free observation towards the maximum magnification setting. The caveat here is that this level of scope specification and build quality is not inexpensive, even if Celestron as a manufacturer is routinely feted for its good value products. 

With first impressions being largely positive, how does the Celestron Regal M2 65ED spotting scope handle in practice?

Specifications

Magnification: 16x-48x
Objective lens diameter: 65mm
Field of view at 1000 meters: 43-23m
Closest focusing distance: 5 metres
Eye relief: 20mm
Weight: 1327g
Dimensions: 332 x 96 x 117mm

Key features

Once again some of the key features of this scope are trumpeted in the model name of the Celestron Regal M2 65ED. As regular readers will know, the ‘ED’ in the model name here refers to the inclusion of high-quality Extra-low Dispersion glass in the scope’s construction to help avoid chromatic aberration, while the ‘65’ refers to its large-ish 65mm objective lens. 

As always, the broad rule of thumb when it comes to objective lenses is the bigger the lens the brighter the view through our eyepiece. As well as the above the construction of this scope further features class-leading BaK-4 prisms and fully multi-coated optics. In short, this top-of-the-range device is optimized to deliver the sharpest and hopefully clearest image possible. It’s versatile too, in that its standard 1.25-inch eyepiece mount allows the use of a variety of astronomical eyepieces if star-gazing as well as animal watching is your thing.

As expected at this level, the scope is nitrogen purged to prevent fogging and waterproofed with it. We also get a soft carry case provided out of the box in a good quality woven nylon backpack-like material for transportation and further protection from the elements when out and about.

Build and handling

Roughly the length of a human forearm complete with hand and elbow joints, the magnesium-alloy-bodied Celestron Regal M2 65ED certainly looks, well, a bit posh. Instead of a plastic or rubber slip-on eyepiece cover, we get a metal cylinder that screws into place and covers that whole section, thereby offering maximum protection for the angled eyepiece unit when transporting. 

It does however add to set up time, in that we have to unscrew it before observation can begin. At the other end of the device is a regular clip-on objective lens cap – the kind we’d find supplied with a camera lens.

Halfway down the body of the scope and sitting above the fitted tripod mount is a dual-action focus knob. Here the slightly thicker of the dials is for broadly determining focus, and offers some resistance, while the smaller one that sits just in front of it for fine-tuning is much looser in feel. 

Focus can be adjusted with the right hand while the left-hand turns the magnification ring on the zoom eyepiece, with approximate settings marked on the barrel from minimum 16x to maximum 48x. These are more for show than anything, as with our eye pressed up against the eyepiece, we can’t actually see them when operating the scope.

The Celestron Regal M2 65ED has an attractively tactile feel thanks to its rubber-coated exterior, which also enables a sturdy grip when retrieving it from its box or provided carry bag and placing it on and taking it off the tripod. 

While said tripod feels a must, if pushed it is possible to achieve an acceptably wobble-free image if we do want to use it handheld, provided we’re on the lowest 16x magnification setting. As we progress to a maximum of 48x magnification, however, the image through the eyepiece begins predictably jumping around all over the place – unless we add the suggested and very sensible tripod support.

The Celestron Regal M2 65ED’s build quality is such that it gives us reassurance it will withstand years of use with careful ownership, which is exactly what we’d hope and expect at this price point. Each feature promotes its operation and feels precision engineered, without any corners having been obviously cut to come in at its price point.

Performance

Even on dull days with plenty of cloud cover, the brightness of the lens ensures that we are able to achieve consistently clear results. We deliberately focused the Celestron Regal M2 65ED on more challenging high-contrast subjects, such as the branches of a tree silhouetted against a featureless sky. 

We are happy to report that views were naturalistic and sharp in terms of color and free of tell-tale purple fringing. If we’re nit-picking, at times we did notice a watery halo-like effect towards the edges of our circular frame. 

The manufacturer also claims its dual focus knob setup allows us to find critical focus twice as fast. We’re not sure about that, but in any event, we were able to arrive at a level of sharpness we were happy with via the broader dial, without really needing to utilize the fine-tuning. 

Twiddling the smaller focus dial rarely made much discernable difference. When the weather brightens an adjustable pull-out lens shade at the front and twist-up eyecup for the eyepiece at the rear aids viewing comfort. And, as stated earlier, we really do need to add a tripod to the setup to get the best results and most comfortable observation with the scope.

Verdict

For those who are serious about observing the wonders of nature, whether out in the great outdoors or from the back bedroom window, the waterproof Celestron Regal M2 65ED delivers a sharp, clear, and moreover close-up view of the faraway. A large and bright objective lens that aids low light observation does mean a fairly chunky scope, however, that requires the use of a full-size tripod to deliver judder-free viewing. Still, if we’re going to be observing what’s around us from a fairly static point, and not getting up and moving with our visual quarry, that’s not an issue.

While it’s not inexpensive, pricing here feels fair and the scope’s build and implementation are worthy of the investment being asked. Custom-made extras include an adapter that allows the use of a smartphone to take pictures and video if desired, making this a fairly comprehensive and future-proof option for dedicated birders. 

Read more:

• The best spotting scopes
• Best binoculars
• Best budget binoculars under $100
• The best monoculars
• The best night vision goggles and binoculars 

A spotting scope is something that is in between the best monoculars and best telescopes, with a smaller and more compact size than a telescope, but much more powerful optics than a monocular. The best spotting scopes are used mostly for bird and wildlife watching, as well as hunting, and observing the night sky.

We recently reviewed the Celestron Outland X 10-30x50mm monocular and described it as being closer to your typical spotting scope than a regular monocular. Not only did it resemble a spotting scope that had been miniaturized, but that product also offered the ability to vary magnification from 10-30x and all points in between. The step-up product is this physically larger but still relatively compact Celestron Hummingbird 9-27x56mm ED micro spotting scope, which offers an even bigger, brighter lens for a theoretically clearer view in lower light levels. 

The 56mm objective lens is here married to a marginally less powerful magnification range that runs between a standard monocular-like spec of 9x, thus allowing this to be used as a substitute for a monocular/binocular when we don’t want to carry both, up to a maximum 27x. 

In essence, it’s a spotting scope for bird watchers and nature lovers always on the move; those wanting an observational aid that’s relatively powerful yet lightweight and compact with it. Presumably naming it after this particular small bird is supposed to amplify its compactness and versatility.

For comfort when viewing subjects for prolonged periods of time, we get a screw thread to enable this Celestron to be tripod mounted. As there is no image stabilization built into the scope, investing in a tripod of a similar travel-friendly size would help prevent any visible wobble the more we increase the magnification. Well, that’s the theory at least; let’s see how well this Hummingbird scope pans out in practice.

Specifications

Magnification: 9x-27x
Objective lens diameter: 56mm
Field of view at 1000 yards: 216-98
Closest focusing distance: 3 metres
Eye relief: 15mm
Weight: 590g
Dimensions: 21.3x13x6.1 cm

Key features

As we’d expect, the key features of the angled Celestron Hummingbird 9-27x56mm ED micro spotting scope are all there in the model name. We have the ability to adjust our magnification from 9x to 27x – and anywhere in between – coupled with a larger-than-average 56mm objective lens. The rough rule of thumb is the bigger the lens the better; after all, the more light allowed in the brighter the view. 

Obviously being able to vary the magnification is helpful for those tracking moving subjects – particularly when our subject is nervous wildlife that would otherwise be disturbed by humans in close proximity. The ‘ED’ part of the name signifies the inclusion of Extra-low Dispersion glass. The construction further includes BaK-4 prisms, along with fully multi-coated optics to aid clarity of view, all features we’d expect to find at this price point.

Offering a degree of flexibility and a 45° viewing angle for comfort, the scope can be used as close as 10ft from our subject.

Unsurprisingly given that most users of this scope will be venturing into the great outdoors, the device is handily waterproofed and nitrogen filled to prevent fogging. For further versatility if required – for example if we want to use the scope for astronomy – there’s the ability to swap out the eyepiece it comes supplied with and substitute a wide range of optional 1.25-inch mount eyepieces, likewise available via Celestron at additional cost.

Build and handling

As usual with this brand, the build quality is good. The design looks slick and the scope has a reassuringly solid feel at 590g when gripped in the palm. While the dimensions are certainly compact enough for this scope to be used handheld, a screw thread for tripod mounting proves a practical necessity. 

When tripod mounting, the 45° angled eyepiece comes in very handy, avoiding the need for us to crouch down, or otherwise have our tripod set to its maximum height to enable a comfortable viewing angle. An actual tripod is an optional extra of course.

In terms of operation and handling, we get two chunky rubberized and ridged control dials on the Celestron Hummingbird 9-27x56mm ED Micro Spotting Scope – the thinner one nearest the eyepiece with attractively copper-colored rings is for adjusting the magnification from 9x to 27x equivalent, while the thicker one nearest the lens is the manually operated focus dial. 

For protecting the eyepiece and lens we’re provided with slip-on rubber caps and a cheap and cheerful looking carry pouch complete with a shoulder strap for transporting the device itself. However, in a slightly unfortunate manner, it does resemble a gun pouch for an undercover detective when slung across the body. Our review sample box also included a lens cloth in fetching pink as an aid for keeping our glass dust and dirt free.

Performance

With 9x and 27x settings printed on the eyepiece, a small nodule at the base of the zoom ring acts as an indicator of where we are in terms of magnification at any time. In keeping things straightforward and simple there are no further markings showing positions between the two extremities. As expected the eyepiece is of the twist-up variety, allowing for comfortable viewing, whether we’re wearing spectacles or not.

If we’re nitpicking we did notice a slight softening and halo effect toward the edges of the frame at times, but not to an extent that it spoiled our view or detracted from the subject. 

Sticking with the positives, any instances of chromatic aberration seem to be well under control here. Even when we were trying to spot tell-tale instances of purple fringing between areas of high contrast, such as the dark branches of a tree silhouetted against a featureless sky, we failed to find them. 

Generally, the level of sharpness is more than acceptable for the size and versatility of the scope and would suit keen amateurs who can’t quite justify much more expensive optics from the likes of Leica or Zeiss.

The blurb for this product describes it as rubber armored, and while it looks sturdy enough to withstand the odd accidental knock, the surface is actually quite smooth, as opposed to roughened or dimpled for a firmer grip. We found our fingers therefore naturally coming to rest around the magnification dial and the focus dial, both of which are chunky, knurled, and yes, rubbery. This holding position also allows for swift adjustments to magnification and focus when tracking a subject, so makes practical sense.

Verdict

If you’re considering purchasing the travel-friendly Celestron Hummingbird 9-27x56mm ED Micro Spotting Scope we recommend factoring in the additional purchase of a travel-sized tripod in order to best take advantage of the magnification range on offer and avoid a view marred by judder towards its maximum setting.

That’s not to suggest this scope cannot be readily used handheld as long as we stick to the minimum 9x range; it can. But to limit ourselves to the more modest end of the zoom would mean we’d literally only be getting part of the picture. In conclusion, this is most suited as an option for amateur bird watchers and nature lovers starting out who don’t want the bulk of a full-size scope.

Read more:

• The best spotting scopes
• Best binoculars
• Best budget binoculars under $100
• The best monoculars in 2021
• The best night vision goggles and binoculars 

Choosing the best spotting scope tripod can be tricky. It can be tempting to go for something ultra-cheap, but this can be a false economy. Spend too little, and you can end up with a flimsy thing that falls over at the first gust of wind, but spend too much, and you could be buying a bulky tripod stuffed with features that you don't really need.

It's all about balance, and that's what I've tried to keep in mind when coming up with this list. A spotting scope user needs stability most of all – a rock-solid support for birding, terrestrial viewing, or studying the night sky. Something that folds up well for easy transport to your spotting location can also be handy.

I've assembled my picks of the best tripods for the best spotting scopes by looking at the tripods the Digital Camera World team has reviewed and highlighting the models that have most impressed me. While I reckon that the best choice is a full-sized tripod that reaches head height, you may also want to consider a travel tripod if mobility is a priority, so I've been sure to include both options.

Best spotting scope tripods

Best spotting scope tripod overall

A flagship member of Manfrotto’s lightweight Befree line-up, this light travel tripod pairs very well with a spotting scope. Included in the kit is Manfrotto’s compact Befree 3-Way Live Head: its hydraulic damping system is made for videographers, helping them smooth, steady movements, and it’s a good complement to a spotting scope. The kit also includes a 200PL-PRO quick-release plate (which can take both Manfrotto RC2 and Arca-Swiss attachments).

The tripod itself has a lever leg-locking system, plus a strong center column to extend the maximum height to a respectable 150cm.

See our full Manfrotto Befree 3-Way Live Advanced review

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Best premium spotting scope tripod

If you’re schlepping a big spotting scope around, you won’t also want to be carrying a heavy tripod. But you’ll sure need one that can reliably support your scope, particularly at high magnifications. The 3 Legged Thing Winston 2.0 tripod should definitely be on your list to consider. Don't be fooled by its fairly small and tidy dimensions – this tripod is capable of supporting up to 40kg of payload! That's much, much more than even the largest spotting scopes are going to require.

This isn't quite as high-end as the company's Legends range of tripods, but for my money it offers the best bang for your buck in the 3 Legged Thing range. Its three-section legs and single central column give it rock-solid stability, and with 194cm of maximum height (or even 202cm in monopod mode), it can cater for even the most abnormally tall of spotters.

Versatile and beautifully made, the 3 Legged Thing Winston 2.0 is a fantastic premium tripod for any committed spotter. And while it's pricier than many others on this list, for a carbon fiber tripod, it's excellent value!

See our full 3 Legged Thing Winston 2.0 review

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Best tripod for large spotting scopes

While it is pretty pricey, and you'll need to factor in the cost of the head, the Manfrotto 055 MT055CXPRO3 is solid as a rock. It's a simple, straightforward tripod, lacking the bulk-reducing swing-up legs of other travel tripods, but all the more sturdy for it. It's easy to set up in seconds, and if you're toting a larger spotting scope, it could be worth the investment.

Equipped with a pivoting center column, the 055 MT055CXPRO3 (catchy name, eh?) is wonderfully intuitive in use. With some tripods, you often need to factor in a good chunk of time figuring out how it works when you first get your hands on it, but Manfrotto's creation is so darn intuitive. From the leg angle mechanisms to the pivoting column, it all flows beautifully. And with a 20kg load rating, it's well-equipped to take even the heaviest scope.

See our full Manfrotto 055 MT055CXPRO3 review

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Best budget spotting scope tripod

An entry-level aluminum tripod with a built-in fluid pan-and-tilt head that moves through 360º, the Svbony SA402 is an ideal partner for a spotting scope. Its all-in-one design will only suit those who plan to pair it with a spotting scope near-permanently, though elsewhere it’s got a lot going for it for outdoor use.

Weighing a mere 2.2kg/4.85lbs, it comes with a nice shoulder bag complete with an adjustable shoulder strap. It reaches an impressive 164cm/64.5” thanks to an extendable center column and, in my tests, felt sturdy enough with a spotting scope mounted on top. I noticed some slight droop on the tilt axis, but nothing serious.

See our full Svbony SA402 review

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Best tall spotting scope tripod

The AD-01 3751 isn’t the strongest tripod around, but if you’re packing a relatively lightweight spotting scope, then its affordability, ease of use, and precision movements make it a good choice. It may weigh just 2.86g/6.3lbs and come with a shoulder bag, but it’s got a lot of girth, so is not the easiest tripod to travel with. Nor is it manufactured with the finest quality materials; it looks a little flimsy. However, its three-section double-shaft leg design and three-pronged spreader between the first and second stages add some extra stabilization, and its maximum height is a generous 186cm.

Crucially, it comes with a fluid two-way ball head (complete with leveling bowl base) and a detachable pan handle that makes precision movements possible. It’s compatible with DJI RS 2 and Manfrotto quick-release plates. There’s even a hidden magnetic hex key to make it easy to attach to the bottom of a spotting scope while you’re out in the field.

See our full SmallRig Heavy-Duty Fluid Head Tripod review

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Best spotting scope tripod for travel

Given the outdoorsy nature of spotting scopes, it’s tempting to use a travel tripod, but their reliance on an extendable center column can make them unstable. Not so the Manfrotto Befree Advanced Twist, whose center column adds an extra 23cm/9” while retaining stability. That’s largely thanks to a twisting lock at its base – hence the name – though I also loved its M-lock four-section legs. With a maximum height of 150cm, the tripod folds down to a convenient 40cm, making it easy to pack for a trip.

The included ball head is excellent, though it’s one area that may need upgrading if you’re after more precision, in which case you should also check out the Digital Camera World guide to the best ball heads.

See our full Manfrotto Befree Advanced Twist review

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How to choose the best spotting scope tripod

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How we test tripods

We measure the maximum operating height of each tripod and its folded height for carrying, complete with head attached. We also measure the combined weight of each set of tripod legs and head, using electronic scales, and measure the diameter of all leg sections, from the widest to the thinnest, using digital calipers.

We check the ease of use, smoothness and precision of all available adjustments in each set of tripod legs and heads. This ranges from adjusting leg sections and pivot facilities (where available), to the locking mechanisms of the head, as well as independent pan and friction damping adjustments, where fitted.

To check overall stability, we look for good resistance to flexing and vibrations throughout the whole range of operating heights, including the tallest available settings with the legs and center column fully extended.

Find out more about how we test and review on Digital Camera World

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After years of carrying spotting scopes through dense woodland, across exposed moorland, and along windswept coastal paths, I have come to see them as much more than simple optical instruments. A good spotting scope quickly becomes a trusted companion in the field, ready for those moments when the landscape opens up, and the smallest distant details suddenly become important.

Whether you are picking out red deer in the early morning light, tracking sails across the horizon, or studying the craters and textures of the moon, a spotting scope can bring faraway subjects into view with remarkable clarity. There is something deeply rewarding about seeing details that would otherwise remain hidden from the naked eye.

Also known as field scopes, spotting scopes offer considerably more reach than even the best monoculars while remaining practical enough to carry outdoors. Most of the best monoculars provide around 8x or 10x magnification, whereas spotting scopes typically offer much greater power, often through a flexible zoom range. This makes them particularly well suited to birdwatching, wildlife observation, target shooting, and digiscoping. That extra magnification does come with one important requirement, however, as a sturdy tripod is essential for keeping the image steady.

From affordable beginner-friendly models to beautifully engineered professional optics, there is now a spotting scope to suit almost every type of observer. Whether you are buying your first scope or replacing a trusted model that has served you for years, this guide brings together the best spotting scopes available today, covering a wide range of budgets, uses, and experience levels.

The best spotting scopes in 2026

Best all-round spotting scope

It’s no surprise that camera and optical manufacturer Nikon produces scopes with the ability to attach a camera and enjoy the art of digiscoping. Indeed, Nikon has its own digiscoping system.

There’s a lot of choice in this field, but the Nikon Fieldscope ED50 offers a 50mm objective lens (to which a 55mm filter can be attached if desired) and is both relatively compact and lightweight with it.

It also ticks the boxes for the regular must-haves, such as a fog-banishing nitrogen-filled construction and built-in waterproofing (it can even be submerged up to a meter for five minutes) for all those times when the weather doesn't play ball, along with a multilayered lens coating to ensure superb light transmission and, ultimately, high-resolution images.

Read our full Nikon Fieldscope ED50 review

Final thoughts

The Nikon Fieldscope ED50 is a compact, lightweight spotting scope that punches well above its weight. With impressive optical clarity, true-to-life color rendition, and a rugged, weather-sealed body, it’s an ideal choice for birders and wildlife enthusiasts who value portability without sacrificing image quality.

It feels like a premium tool in the field, and Nikon’s trusted optics heritage really shines through. If you're looking for a travel-friendly scope that performs reliably in all conditions, the ED50 is well worth the investment.

Best spotting scope for image quality

Any photographer will recognize the name Zeiss as being the bee’s knees for optical quality, so selecting a Zeiss scope for wildlife and nature photography has got to be a sensible decision.

Of course, Zeiss doesn’t come cheap, but the Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 is versatile due to a rapid focus mechanism and a close near-focus setting, so even observing smaller objects or wildlife is claimed to be easier than ever.

Of course, you only have to look at the name of the product to see one great advantage – namely, a whopping 85mm-diameter objective lens, useful for low-light observation. Couple this with a zoom-magnification range of up to 60x and a fog-proof, nitrogen-filled construction, and you’ve really got something.

Read our full Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 review

Final thoughts

The Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 is a top-tier spotting scope that combines superb optical performance with a relatively lightweight and rugged design. Its 85mm HD lens and premium coatings deliver bright, sharp images with excellent contrast, even in low light, while the smooth, responsive focus ring makes fine adjustments easy in the field.

Though it lacks a secondary fine focus knob, the Gavia 85 more than makes up for it with its clarity, build quality, and dependable performance. For those who want professional-grade viewing without venturing into ultra-premium territory, this is a seriously impressive scope that’s worth every penny.

Best premium option

The Leica APO-Televid 65, paired with the 25-50x WW ASPH zoom eyepiece, strikes a fine balance between portability and performance. Its 65mm objective lens delivers bright, detailed views, while the versatile 25 to 50x magnification range makes it well-suited for everything from birdwatching to long-distance landscape observation.

The angled eyepiece design adds a welcome element of comfort, especially when tripod-mounted, allowing for relaxed viewing without the need to crouch or strain. Chromatic aberration is impressively well-controlled, with virtually no visible purple fringing, and the APO-Televid 65 holds its own as a high-performing scope that should provide many years of dependable service.

In terms of design, Leica has created a scope that is both practical and visually appealing. A large, grippy zoom ring on the eyepiece and dual focusing wheels make it quick to find your subject and then fine-tune the image with precision. The build is sleek yet robust, as you would expect from Leica, with the sort of refinement that inspires confidence in the field.

Performance is equally impressive, with focus and zoom controls that are deliberately firm, enabling smooth, incremental adjustments without overshooting your mark. Views through the scope are bright and clear, with natural colour rendition and strong contrast, delivering image quality that will satisfy most discerning users.

Value-wise, the APO-Televid 65 carries the premium price tag associated with Leica’s German engineering and meticulous construction. On paper, the body alone feels relatively well-priced for its class, but the dedicated zoom eyepiece is an essential component that pushes the overall investment higher. Even so, for those seeking a durable, versatile, and beautifully made scope, the package offers solid long-term value.

Read our full Leica APO-Televid 65 review

Final thoughts

The Leica APO-Televid 65 with 25-50x WW ASPH zoom eyepiece is a scope that blends versatility, comfort, and refined engineering into a package that’s built to last. It may not quite reach the optical extremes of the very best in the market, but its bright, clear views, robust construction, and user-friendly design make it a rewarding choice for serious enthusiasts. For those willing to invest in premium craftsmanship and long-term reliability, it’s a scope that will deliver years of satisfying performance.

Best spotting scope for beginners

This is a well-balanced mid-range spotting scope that delivers strong performance without pushing into premium price territory, making it a smart pick for wildlife watchers who want quality without going overboard.

It’s supplied with a lightweight travel tripod for quick setup in the field, plus a handy car window mount that’s perfect for roadside observations, when pulling over is your only option. That added flexibility makes it a great companion whether you’re out in the woods or scanning across a nature reserve from your vehicle.

The 20-60x magnification range offers plenty of scope – quite literally – for tracking a wide variety of bird and animal species. Whether you’re watching a red kite wheeling overhead or trying to get a closer look at deer grazing in the distance, it’s up to the task. The 65mm objective lens might not rival the brightness of larger, heavier scopes, but for daytime use, it delivers crisp, clean detail that’s more than enough for most conditions.

Built to withstand the elements, this model features IPX7-rated waterproofing with fully O-ring sealed optics, so even in wet and unpredictable weather, you can rely on it to keep working without worry. It feels reassuringly durable and ready for real-world adventures, not just fair-weather outings.

If you’re after a dependable scope that blends performance, portability, and price into one very usable package, this is well worth a look.

Read our full Bushnell 20-60x65 Prime review

Final thoughts

The Bushnell Prime 20-60x65 is a rugged and reliable spotting scope that delivers solid performance at an accessible price. Its fully multi-coated optics and BAK4 prisms produce bright, contrast-rich images, while the EXO Barrier coating and waterproof, fog-proof construction ensure it stands up to the elements.

Lightweight yet sturdy, it’s easy to carry and comes with a versatile tabletop tripod that doubles as a window mount. While it may not compete with high-end scopes in sharpness, it offers excellent value for casual birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for dependable performance without the premium price tag.

Best spotting scope for astronomy

Weighing 2kg and sporting a 100mm diameter lens, this is one of the biggest and bulkiest scopes on my list, so it wouldn't be great for, say, action photography. But for more stationary pursuits like stargazing and watching wildlife from a distance, it's a great option.

The largest aperture scope in the Ultima line, it offers more than 50 percent brighter images than the 80mm version, so it's a better option for low-light shooting.

The 100mm refractor features a 45° viewing angle and offers excellent multi-coated optics packed into a portable and durable refractor design. It comes standard with an angled, 22-66x zoom eyepiece, and a soft carrying case is also included.

Read our full Celestron Ultima 100 review

Final thoughts

The Celestron Ultima 100 is a powerful spotting scope that delivers bright, sharp views thanks to its large 100mm objective lens and multi-coated optics. With a versatile 22–66x zoom range and angled design for comfortable viewing, it’s well-suited for birdwatching, nature observation, and long-range spotting.

Its waterproof build adds durability, though its larger size makes it less travel-friendly. Still, for those who prioritize image quality and low-light performance on a budget, the Ultima 100 is a strong, affordable choice.

Best spotting scope for hiking & travel

Like the hummingbird it takes its name from, the Celestron Hummingbird 9-27x56 ED spotting scope is small and mobile, with a very manageable weight of 590g. That means it’s also ideally suited to taking on your travels. It will fit into a roomy jacket pocket, a rucksack, or a shoulder bag, and can be stashed in carry-on luggage.

At its lowest 9x magnification level, it can even substitute for a monocular, giving you, in effect, two products in one, though the angled viewfinder may not be ideal for handheld spotting.

This device is waterproof and nitrogen-filled to prevent fogging, and is a tripod, monopod, and window-mount adaptable, giving it an extra degree of versatility. In summary, if you’re looking for a more portable alternative to a full-sized spotting scope, this ‘bird is hard to beat. What’s more, it’s also camera-adaptable for those into digiscoping.

Read our full Celestron Hummingbird 9-27x56mm review

Final thoughts

The Celestron Hummingbird 9-27x56mm ED Micro Spotting Scope is a compact, travel-friendly option that delivers surprisingly sharp and vibrant images for its size. Its ED glass and multi-coated optics perform well at lower magnifications, and the 9–27x zoom range makes it ideal for everything from birding to casual nature observation.

While image quality can soften at full zoom, dropping the magnification slightly improves clarity. With a close focus distance of just three meters and a waterproof build, the Hummingbird is a smart choice for those wanting a lightweight, go-anywhere scope.

Best spotting scope for DSLR photography

The Celestron Regal M2 65ED is a premium spotting scope that is nevertheless fair value in its price range, offering suitability for everything from bird watching in the day to watching the heavens at night.

Celestron claims that this second-generation unit has reduced the overall weight of the spotting scope by more than 14 percent, while still providing a rugged magnesium alloy body.

Further advantages include the fact that it has an upgraded dual-focus mechanism, which enables users to bring their subject into focus two times faster. You can factor in premium features such as Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass, as found in the best camera lenses.

Speaking of which, DSLRs and mirrorless cameras can be attached to the Regal using the included T-adapter (although you will still need to buy a compatible T-mount for your specific camera body).

Read our full Celestron Regal M2 65ED review

Final thoughts

The Celestron Regal M2 65ED is a well-balanced spotting scope that offers excellent optical performance in a compact and durable build. Its ED glass and fully multi-coated lenses deliver crisp, color-accurate images, while the 16-48x zoom and dual-focus system make fine-tuning quick and precise.

Housed in a lightweight magnesium alloy body that's waterproof and nitrogen-purged, it’s ready for any weather. For those wanting premium features without the premium price, the Regal M2 65ED is a standout option.

Best spotting scope for pros

The Leica Televid HD 82 spotting scope is a high-performance, slightly more affordable alternative to Leica’s flagship APO-Televid range. While it carries a premium price tag, it offers exceptional light-gathering capabilities and robust build quality, making it a formidable tool for wildlife observation, digiscoping, and amateur astronomy.

The scope features a large 82mm objective lens housed in a die-cast magnesium body. It is nitrogen-filled to prevent internal fogging and is waterproof up to five meters, ensuring durability in harsh weather.

A standout design feature is the dual-focus system: one large dial for coarse adjustments and a smaller, adjacent dial for fine-tuning sharpness. Underneath its sleek, rubberized exterior, however, it is relatively heavy at 1,505g, making a sturdy tripod essential for stable viewing.

When paired with the 20-60x zoom eyepiece, the scope delivers bright, sharp images even in low-light conditions, such as dawn or dusk. However, this HD model lacks the specialized apochromatic (APO) glass found in Leica's pricier variants, leading to occasional purple fringing (chromatic aberration) in high-contrast scenes, such as dark branches against a bright sky. Additionally, while the clarity is high, I noticed a slight lack of contrast at the full 60x zoom.

Read our full Leica Televid HD 82 review

Final thoughts

The Televid HD 82 is a respectable and competent investment for those who prioritize maximum brightness over absolute color correction. It offers a more compact and elegant alternative to a traditional telescope while maintaining the prestigious Leica build quality.

For users who can tolerate minor optical artifacts to save several hundred dollars compared to the APO range, it is a highly recommended, lifetime-investment tool for serious nature enthusiasts.

How to choose spotting scopes

How we test spotting scopes

We test spotting scopes out in the field, using them on moving subjects, distant landmarks, birds, and wildlife to see how they perform in real-world conditions. For our buying guides, we look for scopes that combine useful magnification, solid construction, clear optics, and dependable handling.

A good spotting scope should be comfortable and reliable enough to use throughout a full day of birdwatching or wildlife observation, while still delivering the clarity needed to pick out fine detail at a distance.

Budget is also an important consideration, which is why this guide includes spotting scopes at a range of price points, with options to suit beginners, enthusiasts, and more experienced users alike.

The conveniently portable Nikon Fieldscope ED50 comes in a choice of either pearlescent green or charcoal grey livery, and in a straight or angled design – look for the model with the suffix ending in ‘A’ for that angled version. Since Nikon also makes cameras, it’s no surprise to learn that this device can also be used for the art of ‘digiscoping’ – namely attaching a camera so that images can be captured with the aid of the scope. 

The ‘50’ in the model name refers to the size in diameter of the objective lens provided – 50mm, in this case. The ‘ED’ prefix unsurprisingly refers to Extra-low Dispersion glass to minimise chromatic aberration. 

Be aware, though, that the  Nikon Fieldscope ED50 is often sold without an eyepiece. These are interchangeable and sold separately. We used Nikon’s own 13-40x/20-60x/25-75x MC II Zoom Eyepiece, providing the ability to increase magnification on our particular device from between 13x and 40x. You do need to factor in the cost of the eyepiece with this device. 

The ‘MC’ here denotes the use of multilayer coating. The only downside is that this particular eyepiece alone costs several hundred pounds/dollars, almost doubling the ‘base’ cost of the scope itself, so do take that into account if you’re considering a purchase of the Nikon Fieldscope ED50.

Specifications

Magnification: 13x to 40x using the provided eyepiece
Objective diameter: 50mm
Field of view at 1000m: 52 metres (at 13x) 
Closest focusing distance: 3 metres
Eye relief: 14.1mm (at 13x) 
Weight: 455g (eyepiece weighs an additional 150g)
Dimensions: 209mm in length, 71mm in width

Key features

With a lot of choice in this field, Nikon here offers up a 50mm objective lens to which a 55mm filter can be attached, if so desired. It’s also optionally compatible with six of Nikon’s MC eyepieces and three wide DS eyepieces, which, as we mention above a potential purchaser will need to budget extra for. 

On inspection of the core device, it happily ticks the boxes for the must-haves of a scope in its class, namely that there is a degree of weather proofing thanks to featuring a fog banishing nitrogen purged build and its claimed ability to survive being dunked a meter underwater for up to five minutes. 

This has led its manufacturer to print that it is ‘waterproof’ on the barrel of the scope itself. Lens wise, this particular specimen features multi-layered coatings to ensure optimum light transmission, plus, ultimately, high-resolution viewing… more on which in due course.

Build and handling

Though described as being relatively compact and lightweight for its class at just 455g, which means it can be use hand held rather than it being strictly necessary to always use it in conjunction with a tripod, this scope still manages to provide some solid heft. Particularly with optional yet essential eyepiece attached, ours weighing in at an extra, though barely noticeable, 150g. However, should we want to make use of the scope for longer periods, a tripod shoe is provided at the base of the unit, fitted with a standard screw thread.

With our right eye pressed against the eyepiece for viewing our subject, focus is adjusted via a prominent ridged dial half way down the barrel of the scope. This dial is sufficiently prominent that with our right hand adjusting magnification on the eyepiece itself, our left hand could readily find it to make focus adjustments ‘in the dark’ and on the fly, without our concentration deviating from the subject itself. So far, so intuitive.

Performance

Not much bigger than the average pair of binoculars, in use this is one of the most practical scopes we’ve handled in recent weeks. Plus the compact size also means that we’re more likely to take the Nikon Fieldscope ED50 out and about with us. In short it’ll get more use.

While it is possible to use handheld, particularly if resting the eyepiece against your eye socket, or lens of your spectacles, for extra stability, at greater magnifications where it’s tricky to achieve a rock steady image without extra help, a tripod will indeed prove invaluable. 

The Nikon eyepiece we were provided with, offering a magnification range between 13x and 40x when twinned with our 50mm objective lens, allowed us to adjust our view from one in which our avian quarry was centre of frame to one in which in which it was too big for the frame; so there is plenty of flexibility should you want to invest in an eyepiece that costs as much as the scope itself.

Verdict

Lightweight, waterproofed and portable, yet not to any degree whereby quality, operability and results are unduly compromised, the Nikon Fieldscope ED50 is a good all rounder. We feel it is a lot more affordable and practical than rival offerings from Leica and Zeiss. 

Here, however, we do have to budget extra for an eyepiece to be able to use it, with the premium option we were provided with costing nearly as much again as the original scope to which it is attached. 

While you’d expect optical quality to not quite be a match for those industry leviathans we’ve just mentioned, in combination, it’s not actually that far off. In short, we were impressed, even if the combination of scope and eyepiece may cost you a few hundred more than you were initially expecting from the price of the scope alone.

Read more:

• Best spotting scopes
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Purporting to offer a premium build for an affordable cost, this black liveried Bushnell 20-60x65 Prime spotting scope is weather proofed for use in the great outdoors, and comes with an angled 45-degree eyepiece. Unsurprisingly, the specifications here refer to a zoom power ranging from 20x to 60x, married to a 65mm objective lens. 

Our review sample also included a Bushnell branded travel tripod, which is certainly handy, though you’ll need to be mounting it on a table or lying down in the undergrowth to use it comfortably. The tripod also has a removable car window mount built into it, useful perhaps if you’re thinking of buying this one for use on a safari – or any native wildlife park where you’re advised to remain in your vehicle and observe from within. But perhaps the biggest lure is that we’re getting all these features at a cost that is within reach of the amateur enthusiast. Read on to find out whether this has resulted in a value-for-money proposition…

Specifications

Magnification: 20-60x
Objective diameter: 65mm
Field of view at 1000m: 50m at 20x, 17m at 60x 
Closest focusing distance: 6.1 metres
Eye relief: 18mm
Weight: 1080g
Dimensions: 370mm in length

Key features

Like the majority of its ilk, this Bushnell device features fully multi coated lenses and protection against fogging regardless of the conditions we happen to be using it in. Furthermore, the Bushnell Prime 20-60x65 spotting scope offers IPX7 level waterproof construction with O-ring sealed optics ensuring everything stays reassuringly dry; at least when immersed in three feet of water for up to 30 minutes, claims the manufacturer. In short, it’s perfect for all weathers.

Further ticking those boxes for desirable features among the cognoscenti is the fact that its optical system comprises ED Prime Extra-low Dispersion glass and premium Bak-4 prisms, helping avoid chromatic aberration while theoretically allowing for a brighter image with it.

Build and handling

Immediately you lift it from the box, this device looks and feels like a well made piece of kit. This unit weighs 1Kg, which ensures the Bushnell Prime 20-60x65 spotting scope feels solid in the palm, but not uncomfortably hefty. The size/weight distribution feels pretty much spot-on, in fact.

With the angled eyepiece providing comfort, if we’ve any gripe with the build, it’s that the zoom ring, which like the adjustable eyecup has a rubberised ridged surface for easy purchase, is a little on the stiff side, meaning that adjusting magnification is a tad slow. This is not uncommon, however, and in fairness it’s preferable to it being loose enough to accidentally nudge, either in operation or when retrieving it from its zip up bag provided out of the box. A smaller more subtle focus wheel is provided forward of this, its location falling just at our fingertips when an eye is pressed up against the eyepiece, ensuring that we don’t have to take our eyes away from our subject, allowing for focus adjustments to be made on the fly.

Performance

We were faced with light drizzle during our test period – no problem for this device though, as it claims to be water resistant to IPX7 standards. Purporting to offer optimum light transmission, ultra crisp clarity and edge-to-edge detail thanks to the better than expected feature set for its price, as well as boasting colour fidelity, in fairness we’d have to say that image sharpness here doesn’t quite match up to our recent experience with Leica or Zeiss branded scopes that have, by contrast, delivered images so sharp they’re almost overwhelming. 

Compared to these top-end, expensively priced alternatives, what the Bushnell delivers can look a little cloudy by comparison in duller conditions, even when optimum focus has been visibly achieved.

You’ll be eyeing up this scope to bring the faraway closer, naturally, so perhaps it doesn’t matter so much that, alternately, the closest focus distance is a so-so 6.1 metres or 20ft, should the subject we’re tracking move closer towards us. We do however get a long-ish eye relief of 18mm and a twist up eyecup. The idea is that this is left retracted if the user is wearing glasses, or can be manually extended if they aren’t. 

Usefully, in the event that lens flare may become a problem in brighter conditions, there is a pull-out sunshade provided at the opposite lens-end of the device that is actually part of the barrel of the scope itself, as opposed to an accessory to be screwed on or off and possibly mislaid in the process.

Verdict

The Bushnell Prime 20-60x65 is light enough to be used handheld – despite its relative bulk and ruggedness – indicating a tripod will be both more practical and comfortable for extended periods, this is a well made, straightforward-to-use device. OK, so optical quality may not be as pin sharp as more expensive and weightier options from the likes of Leica or Zeiss, but then many will feel the savings we’re making with this one will be worth taking the chance. Peace of mind when buying the Bushnell Prime 20-60x65 scope is offered courtesy of a full lifetime warranty described by the brand as ‘iron clad’, while the inclusion of a tripod with the scope itself is a very welcome addition.

Read more:

• Best spotting scopes
• Best monoculars
• Best binoculars
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If you’re looking to achieve sharp clarity in otherwise poor conditions, including low or failing light at the day’s end, then this 45° angled Leica APO-Televid 82 scope with a huge 82mm objective lens will be high on your wants list. That’s if you are keen enough to stomach the asking price that a premium brand such as Leica warrants. If you are, then, on paper at least, this very much resembles a German crafted precision device that has sophistication in spades and sufficient ‘scope’ for fine-tuning and additional functionality that should ensure that it delivers years of good service. Let’s investigate how that promise turns out in practice…

Leica APO-Televid 82: Specifications

Magnification: 25-50x

Objective lens diameter:  82mm

Field of view at 1000m: 40-26 metres (via 25x-50x eyepiece)

Closest focusing distance: 3.8 metres

Eye relief: Not given

Weight: 1.52kg

Dimensions: 313x108x101mm

Key features

What we’re getting here is a spotting scope body and a sophisticated eyepiece with zoom functionality. At the heart of the Leica APO-Televid 82 angled scope is a 82mm objective lens that gives it its name, which, when combined with fluoride coating, is claimed to increase light yield by 6%. There are two versions of this scope available - an angled viewing version (where the viewfinder attaches to the top at a 45° angle), or a straight version, where the eyepiece attaches to the rear. The eyepiece supplied with our scope was a 25x to 50x variety, which we found provided plenty of ‘poke’ in bringing the faraway closer while providing a decent field of view with it.

At the base of the unit a tripod thread is provided. The size and weight of the device is such that practical use necessitates mounting on a tripod at all times.

Build and handling

The Leica APO-Televid 82 scope features rubber coated die-cast magnesium housing that is nitrogen-filled and waterproofed up to five metres, according to its manufacturer. Thanks to the water and dirt repellent AquaDura lens coating, moisture and dirt are barely able to take hold – which is exactly as it should be given this is a premium scope for which a premium outlay is being requested.

Focusing with this scope is achieved via two ridged dials – or rollers – located just in front of where the angled eyepiece section of the scope is attached. The dial nearest to the user is for what the manual refers to as ‘rough focusing’ – with the second dial nearer the front end being for fine-tuning. The fact that there are two focus dials provided shows that Leica is serious about its users being able to get not only a sharp view, but moreover a very sharp view. 

In practice we found we were using the first, larger/thicker wheel in the main to find and zero focus in on our subject and – once we were satisfied we had the sharpest image we were going to get – just tweaking it a little with the second dial. Whether a nudge back and forth on the second dial made much difference in truth we found it hard to tell, but its presence is reassuring nonetheless. It reminded us of the infamous scene in the movie Spinal Tap with the amp that goes up to 11 – for when the group wants to go ‘one louder’.

At the front end of the Leica APO-Televid 82, the lens hood protecting the unit from glare is extendable, and it’s recommended that this should always be pulled out during viewing to protect from side/stray light, as well as any fingerprints. At the opposite end of the scope, the provided eyepiece is adjustable, should the user be viewing with or without spectacles. For those of us wearing glasses the eyepiece cup should remain screwed tight, so the entire field of view is visible, whereas those without glasses are instructed to turn the eyepiece cup anticlockwise until they hear a click, for optimum viewing.

Performance

While the Leica APO-Televid 82 is reasonably weighty and chunky to transport in the average rucksack or man bag, it’s once we get set up on a tripod with this option, whereby our hands are free to zoom in, focus and then fine tune said focus, that it really comes into its own. The circular image it provides is one of the sharpest we’ve seen – so much so that you feel you can almost reach out and touch with a fingertip whatever it is you’re viewing from afar.

The use of a sturdy tripod is recommended at all times with this device – and it’s best to make sure it is securely fastened to the tripod plate to prevent it swiveling around, or any distracting movement, when adjusting focus on the barrel of the scope itself.

Leica APO-Televid 82: Verdict

While Leica APO-Televid 82 is expensive, it can be said to be reassuringly so; this is a product that should provide you with years of observation that is the very definition of crystal clear, whether you’re looking to observer skittish wildlife or simply bring the far away up close and personal. 

Should you want to attach a camera to indulge in the art of digiscoping, this is available with use of an optional digital adapter from Leica. Likewise optional is a padded outer jacket, or case, to protect the unit further against accidental bumps and scratches, chiefly when transporting it. 

In short the Leica APO-Televid 82 impresses with its optical excellence and versatility, even if we do pay a price to be as impressed as we are.

Read more:

• Best spotting scopes
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The Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 could be ideal if you’re looking for high quality and reliability in spades and have the budget to match your ambitions. Zeiss is a brand instantly recognisable for photography enthusiasts for its optical excellence, so has got to be a top choice. The only negative is that premium options like this inevitably don’t come cheap. But on the plus side if you have got the cash to spare, you’ll be rewarded with years of highly detailed observation.

So what do we get for the sizeable outlay here? Not only a rapid focus mechanism literally at our fingertips when our eye is pressed up against the eyepiece, but also a relatively close near focus setting of 3.3 metres, so that not only observing skittish wildlife but also the viewing of smaller subjects – wild rabbits in our local park for example – is easier to achieve. 

The sharp eyed will have noticed that ‘85’ in the model name, which here makes reference to the whopping 85mm lens diameter that forms the key part of this scope’s construction, suggesting, among other things, better than average visibility in low light. Add to this a zoom magnification range up to 60x and a nitrogen-filled fog-proofed build to literally ‘weather’ the great outdoors, and you’ve really got something. 

Specifications

Magnification: 30-60x
Objective diameter: 85mm
Field of view at 1000m: 33 to 23 metres 
Closest focusing distance: 3.3 metres
Eye relief: Not given
Weight: 1.7Kg
Dimensions: 398x101x161mm

Key features

Resembling a super-sized rifle sight to the uninitiated, this angle bodied scope is all about a large and bright objective lens married to zoom power that lets us, even on its basic 30x setting, examine the feather detailing on a Mandarin duck from 20 metres away without ruffling those proverbial feathers. 

Thanks to the magnification range on offer here, focal length provided is up to the equivalent of a whopping 493mm, with, as mentioned in our intro, a close focusing distance of 3.3 metres. 

The angled eyepiece ensures additional comfort, meaning that you don’t have to crane your neck, crouch, or raise your tripod up to eye level to achieve comfortable viewing. The large 85mm lens highlighted in our preamble also provides better detail in a broader range of conditions than smaller alternatives. In short, a detailed view and versatile, flexible performance is what we’re expecting of the Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85.

Build and handling

The manageable weight and ergonomics of the Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 scope mean that it can be held in the palm. However its size, shape and construction necessitates it to be mounted on a tripod for any practical use, so you’ll need to budget for a tripod too if you don’t already own one. Naturally then the base of this roof prism construction scope has a universal tripod mount with a variety of screw threads for attaching the device to our tripod of choice.

Once you’ve got an eye up against the eyepiece – a part of the device which can be adjusted with a quick twist for those of us who wear spectacles – you’ll need to adjust focus, which is achieve by the thick, ridged rubberised wheel situated conveniently behind the scope’s tripod mount. Here the scope responds smoothly and steadily to the user’s touch and adjustment, without the focus wheel feeling at all ‘loose’. It would be difficult to accidentally nudge the focus in the excitement of tracking your visual quarry, if you didn’t actually intend said adjustment.

Performance

The view through this scope with its HD lens system and class-leading Zeiss T* lens coating, is, at times, so sharp it can sometimes feel a little overwhelming – like the equivalent of flicking from a Full HD channel to one offering 4K resolution. 

Images also offer plenty of contrast and clear definition. We were able to observe nesting geese and skittish waterfowl from afar, as well as a swan taking her baby cygnets for a walk without disturbing them. 

The more you zoom in – for which a zoom ring is provided an inch lower than the eyecup – or the further away from the subject you are to begin with, the potentially less steady the view however, as any vibration due to hand movement on the device itself – as you reach across to adjust the central focus wheel, for example – is amplified. So once zoomed in to the max, it’s best to stay put.

Verdict

The Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 scope looks, feels and handles every inch like the premium tool we expected it to be, which, given the price being asked, is reassuring. Considering the price tag and the chunkiness of its construction, it’s probably not the tool of choice for the casual nature and wildlife observer however; this is one for the true enthusiast who won’t mind the setting up of a tripod required each time it needs to be used. Your patience will however be rewarded with observational views you won’t be able to achieve without it.

Read more:

• Best spotting scopes
• Best binoculars
• Best night vision binoculars
• Best monoculars
• Best binocular harnesses

Normal 400mm or 500mm telephoto lenses aren’t powerful enough to get close enough to many wild animals. However, digiscoping, where you attach your D-SLR or mirrorless camera to a spotting scope, can give an equivalent magnification to an 800mm lens or more. To do this you will need an adapter, which are made by many of the main scope manufacturers. Most adapters have a ‘universal’ attachment, known as a T2 mount, that are available in a range of camera fittings.

Spotting scopes don’t offer the automatic functions such as focus or a variable aperture that you’d have with a telephoto lens, and the effective aperture of most is between f/8 and f/16, so you’ll need plenty of light to use them effectively. You’ll need to use high ISO settings to get shutter speeds fast enough to prevent blur. Despite these limitations, digiscoping offers a relatively accessible way to get huge focal length optics for your D-SLR. 

• See The best spotting scopes in 2021

How to attach your D-SLR to the scope and the settings to use (step-by-step tutorial)

01. Attach the adapter

Before you can attach your camera to any spotting scope, you’ll need to fit an adapter. There are various types for different telescopes and manufacturers. With the Nikon adapters you take off the standard viewing eyepiece and fit the FSA-L2 or FSA-L1.

02. Attach your camera

Once the adapter is fitted to the scope, you can attach the camera. With the Nikon versions the camera fits straight onto the adapter, but for other makes of scope and adapter you’ll also need to use a T2 adapter in Nikon F fitting to fit the camera to the adapter.

03. Camera settings

With no electronic connections, the range of exposure modes and metering using any adapter is limited. On most cameras you can use manual or aperture-priority modes, and centre-weighted metering. In changing light conditions, aperture-priority mode is best.

04. Auto ISO

You can’t adjust the aperture when using a spotting scope, but the automatic ISO setting allows your camera to adjust the exposure without relying simply on the shutter speed. Limit the ISO to 1600, and set the minimum shutter speed to 1/500 sec to get sharp results.

05. Frame your shot

Using the huge magnifications available with digiscoping, finding and framing your subject can be a challenge. Move the telescope until you spot an obvious feature in the viewfinder, look where it is in relation to the area that you want to shoot, then reframe the image.

06. Focusing 

You will have to use manual focus, and this can be difficult to judge due to the limited depth of field and the small maximum apertures of most spotting scopes. Roughly focus the scope on the area you want to be sharp, then fine tune your focusing slowly until it is spot-on.

TOP TIP

Using Live View can help you frame your shots and also focus accurately. It’s also easier to keep an eye open for wildlife when you haven’t got your eye pressed against the viewfinder.

Digiscope adapters

There are several ways of attaching your D-SLR to a scope. The best option is a telephoto adapter that replaces the eyepiece of the scope. The cheaper option is an adapter that pushes over the eyepiece of the scope. Here are some options:

Nikon

Nikon offers two adapters for its scopes, the Nikon FSA-L1 for its Fieldscope range and FSA-L2 for its EDG range. Apart from fitting different scopes, the main difference between these is that the FSA-L2 offers a zoom facility giving a focal length range of up to 1750mm with the EDG85 scope, while the cheaper FSA-L1 is a fixed magnification of between 800m to 1000mm, depending on the Fieldscope that you use.

Opticron

Opticron’s 40215 Telephotoadapter replaces the eyepiece of the scope, and the firm also produces adapters that fit over the eyepiece. Both types require a T2 mount (£20). Opticron products are not available in the US.

Swarovski

Swarovski produces a telephoto adapter (TLS 800) that replaces the eyepiece, and a two-piece adapter (TLS Apo) that fits over the eyepiece. Both require a T2 mount.

Read more

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New to the world of spotting scopes? If you’re wondering how to choose the best spotting scope, fieldscope or digiscope for your budget, our handy buying guide will help. 

As with choosing a pair of binoculars (from which a spotting scope is very much a step-up thanks to its greater magnification) the first consideration to make is what you need it for. Do you want it for nature, bird and wildlife watching, or observing the night sky, for example? And how much are you willing to spend? Bear in mind, too, that spotting scopes are most commonly used with a tripod, which you will have to pay extra for.

If you’re a photographer, you might be seeking out a suitable model for ‘digiscoping’ – namely taking a picture via a combination of the spotting scope and a camera (or even a mobile phone). So you’ll need to make sure both are compatible, and factor any necessary adaptors into your buying decision.

If you are into astronomy, you will have to make the decision between a spotting scope - and the more usual telescope. Telescopes are not really designed for seeing things on land, so are not useful if you also want to use your 'scope for bird-watching say. Also, telescopes are more modular - allowing you to change eyepieces - but are not as easy to transport around or set up in a hurry.

Straight or angled?
There are a couple of different construction types when it comes to choosing the best spotting scope, too: either a straight or an angled body. As the first suggests, the body and eyepiece of the scope lie on the same optical plane, enabling you to look straight through the eyepiece at your intended subject. In an angled-body spotting scope, the eyepiece is situated at 45 degrees to the body, meaning your line of sight is also at an angle. The second type of scope allows for more comfortable use when lying or sitting and saves having to crane your neck, no matter what height you are.

Magnification range
Spotting scopes typically have specifications that comprise three numbers: the first two indicating magnification range, and the third the size of the front lens. For example, 14-45x60 would indicate that the front lens has a diameter 60mm, and has a magnification range going from 14x up to 45x. 

A larger lens will, broadly speaking, provide a better, more detailed image, while a higher magnification range will enable you to use the scope for a broader range of subjects. 

Ultimately, when it comes to scopes, there’s plenty of, ‘scope’. So, to help narrow things down, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best spotting scopes to suit a variety of pursuits and budgets…

This sleek-looking spotting scope solution comes with a straight eyepiece and won’t break the bank. Despite the budget price, the Bushnell Sentry 18-36x50 is also impressively waterproof, with proper O-ring sealed optics, so the internal workings stay fully dry, even when the Bushnell is submerged in water. 

In terms of the optical performance, multi coatings help ensure reflections are avoided and all ‘air to glass’ surfaces deliver bright, high-contrast images. The porro prism system also features twist-up eye cups and a comfortable 16mm eye relief. Weighing 877g despite the moisture-sealed build, this is still a relatively manageable and portable spotting scope.

Like the Hummingbird it takes its name from, the Celestron Hummingbird 9-27x56 ED spotting scope is small and mobile, with a manageable weight of 590g. That means it’s also ideally suited to taking on your travels. It will fit into a roomy jacket pocket, a rucksack or shoulder bag, and can be stashed in carry-on luggage. 

At its lowest 9x magnification level, it can even substitute for a binocular – giving you, in effect, two products in one. What’s more, the device is waterproof and nitrogen filled to prevent fogging. Although it is small enough to be comfortably held in the hand, this model is also tripod, monopod and window-mount adaptable, giving it an extra degree of versatility. In summary, if you’re looking for a more portable alternative to a full-sized spotting scope, this ‘bird is hard to beat. What’s more, it’s also camera-adaptable for those into digiscoping.

The Celestron Regal M2 65ED is a premium spotting scope that is nevertheless fair value in its price range, offering suitability for everything from bird watching in the day to watching the heavens at night. Celestron claim that this second-generation unit has reduced the overall weight of the spotting scope by more than 14 per cent, while still providing a rugged magnesium alloy body. Further, advantages include the fact that it has an upgraded dual-focus mechanism, which enables users to bring their subject into focus two times swifter. 

Factor in premium features such as Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass found in the best camera lenses, and this is a key contender for your cash. What’s more, a camera can be attached to the Regal using an included T-adapter ring for DSLR; a scope with plenty of scope, this one.

Any photographer will recognize the name Zeiss as being the bee’s knees for optical quality, so selecting a Zeiss scope for wildlife and nature photography has got to be a sensible decision. Of course, Zeiss don’t come cheap, but the Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 is versatile due to a rapid focus mechanism and a close near-focus setting, so even observing smaller objects or wildlife is claimed to be easier than ever. 

Of course, you only have to look at the name of the product to see one great advantage – namely a whopping 85mm-diameter objective lens, useful for low-light observation. Couple this with a zoom-magnification range up to 60x and a fog-proof, nitrogen-filled construction, and you’ve really got something.

It’s no surprise that camera and optical manufacturer Nikon produces scopes with the ability to attach a camera and enjoy the art of digiscoping. Indeed, Nikon has its own digiscoping system. There’s a lot of choice in this field, but the Nikon Fieldscope ED50 offers a 50mm objective lens (to which a 55mm filter can be attached if desired) and is both relatively compact and lightweight with it. 

It also ticks the boxes for the regular must haves, such as a fog-banishing nitrogen-filled construction and built-in waterproofing (it can even be submerged up to a meter for five minutes) for those inclement seasons, along with a multilayered lens coating to ensure superb light transmission and, ultimately, high-resolution images.

Why have we chosen the Kowa TSN-501 as an ideal candidate for kids? Well, not only is this polycarbonate constructed model compact and lightweight at 400g, so little arms won’t get tired, but there is a separately available adapter ring for it that allows a smartphone to be attached, so youngsters can also explore the art of digiscoping for themselves. 

As well as being lightweight, it measures just 239mm in length, plus it's available in a choice of angled or straight models, adding versatility to the fact that it's suitable for all ages. Added to this, the scope is waterproof and nitrogen filled. The 20-40x zoom has a twist operation, furthering the simplicity and speed of this one’s operation. Actually, having noted all the above, we’ve realized that this is too good to be just for kids.

Sure, plane spotters are just slightly above train spotters when it comes to being the butt of good-natured jokes, but there’s nothing funny about the waterproof Ultima 80 from industry stalwart Celestron, which offers a 20x to 60x magnification range, wedded to a large and bright 80mm objective lens. 

Offering a comfortable 45-degree viewing angle, a closest focusing distance of eight meters is acceptable too, when your quarry is an aircraft, not a rare butterfly on a bush. Likewise, a weight of 1,616g is – while not the most portable option out there – again perfectly reasonable given the feature set and bang for your buck. What’s more, this particular model can be adapted for use with a camera, so you can capture a pictorial record of a 747 landing – before you stash the scope in hand luggage and jet off yourself.

When it comes to gazing wistfully at the heavens, a dedicated telescope is best, though are plenty of general-purpose spotting scopes that will act as a stand in, or alternative. Enter the Hawke Vantage 24-72x70 from the Hawke brand, a multi-purpose spotting scope that has the distinct advantage of an impressive 24-72x magnification range, as well as coming bundled with an adjustable mini tripod and integrated window mount. 

For those who want to take it out in the wild to avoid light pollution affecting the view of the sky at night, it also has the advantage of a tough rubber body coating plus a waterproof construction. Its maker further claims its porro prism design delivers intense color and contrast. And did we mention the affordable price point?