Exploring the great outdoors and getting up close and personal with nature is every adventurer’s dream. But high-quality optics like spotting scopes can put a serious dent in your wallet. That’s where our guide to the Best Budget Spotting Scopes comes in! We’ll show you how to score an impressive yet affordable spotting scope that delivers crisp, magnified views of birds, wildlife, and the starry skies above without emptying your bank account.
List of the Best Budget Spotting Scopes
Check out the thorough review of the best budget spotting scopes below.
1. Gosky 20-60×80 Spotting Scope
The Gosky Updated 20-60×80 Spotting Scope stands out as a versatile and high-performing optical device. Designed for various outdoor activities, its variable magnification of 20x to 60x and dynamic lens focusing system make zooming in on distant subjects effortless. This scope is ideal for archery, bird watching, wildlife observation, hiking, camping, and even astronomical observations.
Equipped with a fully multi-coated 80mm green film objective lens, it offers a wide field of view ranging from 82.9 to 48 feet per 1000 yards. The BAK4 Porro prism optics significantly enhance light transmission, resulting in brighter, clearer, and crisper images. The nitrogen-filled, waterproof, and fog-proof design ensures reliable performance in challenging environments. Its durable framework and rubber armor provide a non-slip, shock-proof grip, extending the scope’s longevity.
The inclusion of a smartphone digiscoping adapter allows users to capture photos and videos of their observations, bringing nature closer through the phone screen. The sturdy tabletop full metal tripod and mount facilitate stable observations from any angle. Additionally, the carry case, eyepiece, lens protection covers, and cleaning cloth offer convenience for transport and maintenance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile magnification: Easily adjustable from 20x to 60x.
- High-quality optics: BAK4 Porro prism enhances clarity and brightness.
- Durable and weatherproof: Waterproof and fog-proof with robust construction.
- Smartphone adapter: Allows for easy photo and video capture.
- Complete accessories: Includes tripod, carry case, and cleaning tools.
Cons:
- Heavyweight: The robust build adds to its weight.
2. Svbony SV28 25-75×70 Spotting Scope
The SVBONY SV28 Spotting Scope is a robust and versatile optical instrument designed for bird watching, target shooting, and wildlife viewing. Featuring a zoom range of 25x to 75x, it offers significant flexibility for both beginners and novices. The 70mm large objective lens ensures powerful light-gathering capability, providing clear and bright images. Additionally, the FMC (fully multi-coated) BAK4 prism enhances light transmission, delivering crisp and detailed visuals.
With an IP65 waterproof rating, this spotting scope can withstand sudden environmental changes, ensuring durability and reliability in various conditions. The non-slip finish adds to its ergonomic design, providing a secure grip even when wet. An extendable sunshade is integrated into the main barrel to reduce glare and protect the scope during rainy days.
The SV28 includes a phone adapter and a portable desktop tripod, facilitating easy photo and video sharing. The angled body design offers improved comfort and is ideal for uphill aiming, making it perfect for target shooting. This lightweight and portable scope can be conveniently carried for outdoor activities or stored in a vehicle for family camping trips.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile magnification: 25x to 75x zoom range.
- High-quality optics: FMC BAK4 prism for brighter, clearer images.
- Durable design: IP65 waterproof with non-slip finish.
- Convenient accessories: Phone adapter and portable tripod included.
- Comfortable use: Angled body for better comfort and uphill aiming.
Cons:
- Narrow field of view: At maximum magnification.
3. Celestron Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope
The Celestron Ultima 80 Angled Spotting Scope is a versatile and high-performance optical instrument ideal for bird watching, wildlife observation, scenery viewing, and hunting. Featuring a robust 80mm objective lens and a dynamic 20-60x zoom eyepiece, it provides detailed and clear views of distant subjects. The 45° viewing angle enhances comfort during prolonged observation sessions.
This spotting scope boasts multi-coated optics, ensuring every lens surface is treated with anti-reflective coatings. This technology significantly improves color and contrast while maximizing brightness, even in low-light conditions. The large focus dial allows for precise adjustments, enabling users to achieve razor-sharp focus quickly.
Designed for durability, the Ultima 80 is both waterproof and fogproof, filled with dry nitrogen gas to prevent internal lens fogging. The scope includes essential accessories such as a soft carrying case, an extended tripod mounting plate, a zoom eyepiece with an integrated T-adapter for digiscoping, an eyepiece pouch, and a lens cloth.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile magnification: 20-60x zoom for detailed views.
- High-quality optics: Multi-coated lenses enhance brightness and clarity.
- Durable design: Waterproof and fogproof for all-weather use.
- Convenient accessories: Includes T-adapter for digiscoping.
- User-friendly: Easy to set up and operate with sharp focus adjustments.
Cons:
- Initial setup: A few users report setup complexity.
4. Roxant Blackbird 12-36×50 Spotting Scope
The Roxant Blackbird Spotting Scope is a premium optical device, ideal for bird watching, wildlife observation, hunting, and sports viewing. This scope features a 50mm objective lens with 12x to 36x magnification, providing high-definition and military-grade performance. The BAK4 prism and fully multi-coated all-glass lens ensure superior light transmission and brightness, resulting in crystal-clear images.
Constructed with a non-slip armored body, the Blackbird offers durability and a comfortable grip. The smooth-glide, textured focus ring allows for precise adjustments, enhancing user experience. The extendable sunshade on the main sighting scope barrel reduces glare, ensuring optimal viewing in various lighting conditions. The 45-degree angled eyepiece adds to the comfort, accommodating eyeglass wearers.
The lightweight design makes the Roxant Blackbird easy to carry, and its compact size is ideal for field use. Included in the package are a tripod and a carrying case, providing stability and convenience for outdoor activities. The large objective lens delivers a bright and wide field of view, ensuring you don’t miss any details.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-quality optics: BAK4 prism and fully multi-coated lens for clear viewing.
- Durable construction: Non-slip armored body with a comfortable grip.
- User-friendly focus: Smooth-glide focus ring for easy adjustments.
- Portable design: Lightweight and compact, ideal for field use.
- Convenient accessories: Includes tripod and carrying case for added stability and portability.
Cons:
- Limited magnification range: Maxes out at 36x.
5. Landove 20-60X80 Spotting Scope
The Landove 20-60×80 Spotting Scope is a high-definition optical instrument designed for a range of outdoor activities such as hunting, target shooting, archery, bird watching, and wildlife observation. Featuring a large 80mm objective lens and a variable 20x to 60x magnification, it provides a wide field of view and allows for detailed, clear images. The scope employs a BAK4 Porro prism and fully multi-coated optics, which enhance light transmission and ensure bright, crisp visuals even in low-light conditions.
The dual focus system, consisting of coarse and fine adjustment knobs, enables quick and precise focusing. This feature is complemented by a 45-degree angled eyepiece and a large 53mm diameter eyepiece for comfortable viewing. The nitrogen-filled, waterproof, and fog-proof design ensures reliable performance in various weather conditions. The scope’s exterior is crafted from high-quality, non-slip rubber, making it shockproof and easy to handle.
Included with the spotting scope are a carrying bag, a tabletop tripod, and a smartphone adapter for digiscoping, allowing users to capture and share their observations easily. The combination of these features makes the Landove spotting scope a versatile and durable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-quality optics: BAK4 prism and fully multi-coated lenses for bright, clear images.
- Dual focus system: Coarse and fine adjustment knobs for precise focusing.
- Durable design: Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof with a non-slip rubber exterior.
- Comfortable viewing: 45-degree angled eyepiece and large 53mm diameter eyepiece.
- Versatile accessories: Includes a carrying bag, tabletop tripod, and smartphone adapter.
Cons:
- Field of view: Narrower at higher magnifications.
6. Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope
The Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60×85 Spotting Scope offers exceptional optical performance and durability for a variety of outdoor activities. Featuring advanced fully multi-coated lenses and Porro prisms, this scope ensures the highest level of light transmission, providing optimum brightness and true color fidelity across the light spectrum. With a powerful zoom range from 20x to 60x and a large 85mm objective lens, users can enjoy detailed, high-contrast images even at long distances.
Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, the Argos HD is waterproof and argon purged, offering superior waterproofing and thermal stability. The fog-proof protection ensures clear viewing in any environment. The rubber armor exterior provides a non-slip grip and enhanced durability, while the rotating ring allows for convenient and comfortable angle adjustments. Additionally, the extendable sunshade minimizes glare for improved clarity.
Ideal for target shooting, hunting, nature viewing, wildlife monitoring, bird watching, hiking, astronomy, and stargazing, the Argos HD spotting scope combines quality and value. It includes a cleaning cloth and a specially designed soft case for easy transport and protection.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-Quality Optics: Fully multi-coated lenses and Porro prisms for optimal light transmission.
- Durable Design: Waterproof, fog-proof, and argon purged for reliable performance in harsh conditions.
- Comfortable Use: Rotating ring and extendable sunshade for customizable viewing angles and reduced glare.
- Versatile Applications: Suitable for various outdoor activities including target shooting and bird watching.
- Lifetime Warranty: Backed by Athlon’s lifetime warranty for long-term satisfaction.
Cons:
- Weight: Heavier than some models, affecting portability.
7. BARSKA 20-60×60 Colorado Zoom Straight Spotting Scope
The BARSKA 20-60x60mm Colorado Zoom Straight Spotting Scope offers a versatile magnification range from 20x to 60x, making it ideal for various outdoor activities such as hunting, bird watching, target shooting, and even lunar observations. The scope features fully-coated optics and a large 60mm objective lens, ensuring bright and clear views. The BK-7 Porro prism enhances image quality, providing sharp and detailed visuals.
The straight body design allows for comfortable and easy use, while the grooved zoom dial enables precise and effortless adjustment of magnification. The rubber armor exterior provides a waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction, ensuring reliability in demanding conditions. The flip-down lens cover protects the lenses from scratches and dust when not in use.
Included with the scope is a tabletop tripod, which offers stable viewing in any situation, along with a soft carrying case and a lens cloth for maintenance. The built-in glare-reducing sunshade further enhances viewing comfort by protecting against sunlight.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile magnification: 20-60x range allows for detailed observation.
- Durable design: Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof with rubber armor.
- User-friendly: Grooved zoom dial and straight body design for easy use.
- Optical clarity: Fully-coated optics and BK-7 Porro prism for bright and clear images.
- Convenient accessories: Includes tabletop tripod, carrying case, and lens cloth.
Cons:
- Tripod stability: Tabletop tripod may not be stable on uneven surfaces.
8. CREATIVE XP 20-60×80 Spotting Scope
The CREATIVE XP Spotting Scope offers impressive versatility with its 20-60x magnification and 80mm or 60mm objective lens. Designed for target shooting, hunting, bird watching, and even stargazing, this spotting scope provides a high-definition, crystal-clear image thanks to its extra-low dispersion glass and fully multi-coated (FMC) lenses. The 45-degree angled eyepiece and BAK4 prisms ensure bright, clear visuals with no chromatic aberrations, even at higher magnifications.
This scope is nitrogen-purged and equipped with a sealed O-ring, making it 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. The robust construction includes a non-slip rubber cover for durability in various environmental conditions. Users can easily zoom and focus on distant objects, from observing bullet holes at 500 yards to viewing Jupiter’s moons.
The package includes a metal tripod, protective case, smartphone adapter, and Bluetooth photo clicker, enhancing the user experience by providing stability and ease of capturing photos and videos.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High-definition glass: Provides crystal-clear images without chromatic aberrations.
- Versatile magnification: 20-60x zoom for detailed observation.
- Durable build: Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof with a non-slip rubber cover.
- User-friendly accessories: Includes tripod, smartphone adapter, and Bluetooth photo clicker.
- Lifetime warranty: Ensures long-term reliability and customer support.
Cons:
- High magnification in low light: Image quality can degrade at maximum zoom in low light.
9. Wozel 25-75X80 Spotting Scope
The Wozel 25-75X80 Spotting Scope offers exceptional performance and versatility for target shooting, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. With a variable magnification range of 25x to 75x, this spotting scope allows you to lock onto your target and zoom in for detailed observations. The 80mm fully multi-coated green film objective lens delivers a bright, clear field of view, ranging from 82.9 to 48 feet at 1000 yards. This is further enhanced by the high-quality BAK4 Porro prism optics, which significantly increase light transmission.
Designed for durability, the Wozel spotting scope features a waterproof, fog-proof, and weatherproof leather exterior, ensuring reliable performance in all environments. The sturdy tripod, which rotates 360 degrees, adds stability and flexibility, making it suitable for a variety of outdoor activities. Additionally, the scope includes a smartphone adapter and a carrying bag, enhancing portability and ease of use.
This spotting scope comes fully accessorized with eyepiece and lens protection covers, a cleaning cloth, and a portable desktop tripod, providing everything you need for convenient and steady observations.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful magnification: Adjustable 25-75x zoom for detailed viewing.
- High-quality optics: 80mm fully multi-coated lens and BAK4 Porro prism for bright, clear images.
- Durable design: Waterproof, fog-proof, and weatherproof with a non-slip leather exterior.
- Comprehensive accessories: Includes tripod, smartphone adapter, carrying case, and cleaning cloth.
- Lifetime customer service: Ensures long-term reliability and support.
Cons:
- Weight: Slightly heavier compared to other spotting scopes, impacting portability.
10. Emarth 20-60x60AE 45 Degree Angled Spotting Scope
The Emarth 20-60x60AE 45 Degree Angled Spotting Scope is an exceptional choice for outdoor enthusiasts, providing versatility and high performance for activities such as target shooting, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. This spotting scope offers an adjustable magnification range from 20x to 60x, allowing for detailed close-up and long-range observations. The 60mm fully multi-coated lens and BAK4 roof prism deliver bright, clear, and high-contrast images, even in low-light conditions. With a field of view ranging from 39 to 19 meters at 1000 meters, it brings nature closer than ever.
Constructed with durability in mind, the Emarth spotting scope features a high-quality rubber armor for a non-slip, shock-proof grip, and robust external protection. Its waterproof and fog-proof design, with O-ring seals and nitrogen-filled barrel, ensures reliable performance in all weather conditions. The 45-degree angled eyepiece provides comfortable viewing, while the included tripod and phone adapter enhance stability and ease of use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High Magnification: Adjustable 20x to 60x zoom for versatile viewing.
- Superior Optics: Fully multi-coated lens and BAK4 prism for bright, clear images.
- Durable Construction: Waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-proof design.
- Comprehensive Accessories: Includes tripod, phone adapter, carrying case, and cleaning cloth.
- Comfortable Viewing: 45-degree angled eyepiece and ergonomic design.
Cons:
- Focus Adjustment: Requires practice to master fine-tuning focus.
What is a Spotting Scope and Why Do You Need One?
A spotting scope is a type of portable telescope designed for terrestrial viewing over long distances. Unlike regular binoculars, spotting scopes provide higher magnification and greater optical quality for viewing subjects in fine detail from far away.
Spotting scopes are essential tools for many outdoor activities where you need to observe distant subjects clearly. Some key uses include:
Birdwatching – Avid birders rely on spotting scopes to get a close-up look at birds, study their markings, and identify species. The high power allows you to see tiny details like eye rings and feather patterns that are nearly impossible with binoculars alone.
Wildlife Viewing – Whether looking for animals on a safari or just observing them in their natural habitats, a spotting scope lets you get a magnified eyeful of bears, deer, whales, and more from a safe distance.
Hunting – Hunters use spotting scopes to scout for game animals, judge antler/horn size, and scan terrain from a lookout position before stalking prey.
Target Shooting – At a firing range or in competitive shooting competitions, marksmen use spotting scopes to view distant targets, analyze shot groupings, and spot impacts.
Astronomy – Some spotting scopes can also double as a small telescope for viewing celestial objects like the moon, planets, star clusters, etc.
The main advantage of a spotting scope is its unmatched optical power and clarity at high magnifications compared to traditional binoculars or monoculars. This ability to discern crisp, colorful details on distant subjects makes spotting scopes indispensable for serious nature enthusiasts and hunters.
What Features Should You Look for in a Budget Spotting Scope?
Magnification
This refers to how many times closer the viewed object appears. For a budget scope, look for 20-60x magnification. Higher is better for extreme distance, but also requires more stable mounting.
Objective Lens Size
This is the diameter of the main optical lens at the front of the scope. Larger objective lenses (50-80mm) allow more light in for a brighter, clearer image, but also make the scope heavier and more expensive. 50-60mm is a good compromise for budget scopes.
Eye Relief
This is the distance your eye can be from the eyepiece while still seeing the full viewing area. Look for at least 14-18mm of eye relief to allow enough space to see the whole field of view comfortably, especially if wearing glasses.
Prism Type
Porro prisms provide bright images but a bulkier shape, while roof prisms are more compact. For a budget scope, porro prisms often provide better quality per dollar.
Lens Coatings
Look for fully multi-coated optics to maximize light transmission and improve image brightness and clarity. Coated lenses are a must for any decent spotting scope.
Close Focus
This is the minimum distance the scope can focus on nearby objects. 20 feet or less is ideal for versatility in viewing both near and far subjects.
Weatherproofing
At minimum, look for O-ring sealed, nitrogen-purged optics to prevent internal fogging. Rubber armoring and water/fog-proofing is also very desirable.
Mounting
Tripod/window mounting is essential for stable high-magnification viewing. Make sure the scope has a standard threaded tripod mount socket.
How to Choose the Best Budget Spotting Scopes for Your Needs?
Know Your Needs
Before we dive into the specs, it’s crucial to understand how you’ll primarily use your spotting scope. Are you a die-hard birder looking to spot those elusive warblers? Or perhaps a hunter seeking to glass that trophy buck from a mile away? Maybe you’re an aspiring astronomer eager to explore celestial wonders. Pinpointing your main use case will help narrow your search.
Magnification Matters
Now, let’s talk magnification – the key to bringing those distant subjects up close and personal. For most budget spotting scopes, you’ll find magnifications ranging from 20x to 60x. As a rule of thumb, birders and general nature observers will be well-served by a 20-40x scope, while hunters and astronomers may want to aim for 50x or higher.
Objective Lens: The Window to Your World
The objective lens, that big honker at the front of the scope, is your gateway to bright, sharp images. Generally, the larger the objective lens, the more light it can gather, resulting in crisper views – especially in low-light conditions. For budget scopes, a 50-60mm objective lens strikes a nice balance between optical performance and portability.
Eye Relief: Keeping it Comfortable
Here’s a factor that often gets overlooked – eye relief. This refers to how far your eye can be from the eyepiece while still seeing the full viewing area. If you wear glasses or simply prefer a more relaxed viewing experience, look for scopes with generous eye relief of at least 14-18mm.
Weather Protection: Battling the Elements
Let’s face it; nature doesn’t always play nice. That’s why a weatherproof spotting scope is non-negotiable, especially if you’ll be venturing into the great outdoors. At a minimum, seek out scopes with O-ring seals and nitrogen purging to prevent internal fogging. A rubber-armored body is also a major plus for shock resistance.
Steady as She Goes: Tripod Compatibility
Here’s a pro tip: even the best spotting scope is rendered useless if you can’t keep it steady, especially at higher magnifications. That’s where a sturdy tripod or window mount comes into play. Make sure your chosen scope has a standard threaded tripod mount socket for easy setup.
Brands that Deliver Bang for Your Buck
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to explore some budget-friendly brands that punch above their weight class. Svbony, Gosky, and Roxant are a few names that consistently deliver impressive optics without breaking the bank. But don’t just take my word for it – read those user reviews and see what real-world spotters have to say.
Frequently Asked Questions when Picking the Best Budget Spotting Scopes
What is a good budget for an affordable spotting scope?
A reasonable budget range for a quality yet affordable spotting scope is around $150 to $300. While you can find very basic spotting scopes for under $100, anything below $150 will likely have very poor optics and lack important features. Spending $200-$300 will get you into spotting scopes with decent glass and coatings from reputable budget brands.
What magnification do I need in a budget spotting scope?
For most uses like birdwatching, wildlife observation, and some hunting, a magnification in the range of 20x to 60x is ideal for a budget spotting scope. 20x to 40x is great for general nature study, while 50x to 60x allows you to zoom in more for identifying birds and glassing game animals at longer ranges.
What objective lens size should I get on an affordable scope?
The objective lens size (diameter of the main front lens) is a key factor in image brightness and quality. For budget scopes, aim for an objective between 50mm to 60mm. This provides enough light gathering ability for decent brightness and resolution without excessive weight and cost.
Are all spotting scope brands the same at the budget level?
No, there can be significant variation in quality between budget spotting scope brands. Some reliable yet affordable brands to consider include Svbony, Gosky, Roxant, Landove, Vanguard, and Celestron’s budget lines. Avoid no-name brands from unknown manufacturers.
Should I buy a spotting scope with angled or straight eyepiece?
This comes down to personal preference for how you’ll use the scope. Angled eyepieces allow more comfortable viewing while sitting or laying down. Straight eyepieces are better for viewing overhead objects like birds in trees. Angled is more popular for most uses.
How important is weatherproofing on a budget spotting scope?
Look for at least basic weatherproofing like O-ring sealed, nitrogen purged optics to prevent internal fogging. Rubber armoring and fog/water resistance is also very beneficial, especially for damp environments. Don’t buy a budget scope without some degree of weather protection.
What accessories do I need to buy with an affordable spotting scope?
At minimum, you’ll need a tripod or window mount to stabilize the spotting scope, especially at higher magnifications. Other handy accessories include a hard carrying case, lens covers/caps, cleaning kit, phone adapter for digiscoping, and a higher quality eyepiece.
How do I care for and maintain a budget spotting scope?
Always store in a dry place, keep lenses covered when not in use, and follow proper cleaning procedures with lens cloths and cleaning solutions. Avoid leaving in extreme heat/cold. Keep well supported on a sturdy mount and tripod.
What are the limitations of budget versus premium spotting scopes?
While very good for the money, budget spotting scopes do have some limitations compared to premium ones like narrower fields of view, shorter eye relief, more chromatic aberration, and less overall optical resolution/clarity. But they can be excellent value for the money.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, investing in one of the best budget spotting scopes is all about maximizing your nature viewing experiences without going broke. By following the tips and recommendations outlined here, you’ll be equipped to find an affordable yet high-performing optic that checks all the right boxes. Whether you’re an avid birder, hunter, or budding astronomer, having a quality spotting scope by your side will unlock a whole new world of detail and discovery.
Enjoyed this guide of the best budget spotting scopes? Then be sure to check out our other scope reviews and guides.