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10 Best Spotting Scopes 2025 in the UK
#1
Winner
9.9 score
Hawke Nature-Trek 20-60x80 Spotting Scope
Hawke Nature-Trek 20-60x80 Spotting Scope
Magnification: 20-60x
Objective Lens Diameter: 80 mm
Lens Coatings: Fully multi-coated
Waterproof and Fogproof: Yes
Body Design: Lightweight metal body
Chosen by 1366 this week
Gosky 20-60x80 Spotting Scope with Tripod, Carrying Bag, and Smartphone Adapter - BAK4 HD Angled Spotter Scope - Waterproof Scope for Target Shooting Hunting Bird Watching Wildlife Scenery
Gosky 20-60x80 Spotting Scope with Tripod, Carrying Bag, and Smartphone Adapter - BAK4 HD Angled Spotter Scope - Waterproof Scope for Target Shooting Hunting Bird Watching Wildlife Scenery
Magnification: 20x to 60x
Objective Lens Diameter: 80 mm
Field of View: 82.9-48 ft at 1000 yds
Lens Coatings: Multi-Coated
Waterproof and Fogproof: Nitrogen-filled, waterproof, fogproof
Body Design: Rubber armor, non-slip grip
Celestron 52308 9-27 x 56 mm Hummingbird ED Micro Spotter Birder-Friendly Spotting Scope, Black
Celestron 52308 9-27 x 56 mm Hummingbird ED Micro Spotter Birder-Friendly Spotting Scope, Black
Magnification: 9-27x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Lens Coatings: Fully multi-coated
Waterproof and Fogproof: No
Body Design: Compact, lightweight, portable
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Hawke Endurance ED 25-75x85 Spotting Scope
Hawke Endurance ED 25-75x85 Spotting Scope
Magnification: 25-75x
Objective Lens Diameter: 85 mm
Lens Coatings: ED Glass, Dielectric, BAK4 coatings
Waterproof and Fogproof: Yes
Body Design: Polycarbonate, Dual Focus, Rotation
Celestron 52306 Regal M2 22-67x100mm ED Angled Zoom Spotting Scope Telescope with Multi-Coated Optics, BaK-4 Prism Glass, Lightweight Magnesium Alloy Body and Padded Carry Case, Green
Celestron 52306 Regal M2 22-67x100mm ED Angled Zoom Spotting Scope Telescope with Multi-Coated Optics, BaK-4 Prism Glass, Lightweight Magnesium Alloy Body and Padded Carry Case, Green
Magnification: 22-67x
Objective Lens Diameter: 100 mm
Lens Coatings: fully multi-coated with XLT coatings
Body Design: lightweight magnesium alloy
Hawke Endurance ED 13-39×50 Compact Spotting Scope
Hawke Endurance ED 13-39×50 Compact Spotting Scope
Magnification: 13-39x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Lens Coatings: ED glass, dielectric Bak4
Waterproof and Fogproof: Waterproof
Body Design: Angled
#10
8.4 score
Svbony SV406P ED Spotting Scopes, 20-60X80mm 1.25” Zoom Spotting Scopes with Dual Focus FMC BAK4, Spotting Scope for Birders Birding Wildlife Casual Astronomy Photography
Svbony SV406P ED Spotting Scopes, 20-60X80mm 1.25” Zoom Spotting Scopes with Dual Focus FMC BAK4, Spotting Scope for Birders Birding Wildlife Casual Astronomy Photography
Magnification: 20-60x
Objective Lens Diameter: 80mm
Lens Coatings: ED glass, FMC
Waterproof and Fogproof: Waterproof and fogproof
Body Design: Compact, 1.6 kg, with case
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Our Top Picks
#1
Winner
Hawke Nature-Trek 20-60x80 Spotting Scope
Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,366
Magnification
Objective Lens Diameter
The Hawke Nature-Trek 20-60x80 Spotting Scope is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts, bird watchers, and hunters. It offers a versatile magnification range from 20x to 60x, allowing you to zoom in on your target with ease. The 80mm objective lens diameter is large, which means it can gather a lot of light, providing bright images even in lower light conditions. Additionally, the fully multi-coated optics help in producing sharp and clear images, which is a notable feature for detailed viewing from as close as 18 feet away.
The scope is designed to be both waterproof and fog proof, thanks to its nitrogen purging, making it reliable in various weather conditions. This is essential for outdoor use where you might encounter unexpected weather changes. The lightweight metal body and tripod mount make it convenient to carry and set up during your adventures.
On the downside, the product does not have image stabilization, which might result in a bit of shakiness at higher magnifications if not properly mounted on a stable tripod. Also, the design seems to be quite functional but not necessarily stylish. The spotting scope ranks 20th among spotting scopes on the best sellers list, which is quite decent, suggesting its popularity and reliability in its category.
Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,366
Magnification
Objective Lens Diameter
Buying Guide for the Best Spotting Scopes
Choosing the right spotting scope can greatly enhance your outdoor experiences, whether you're birdwatching, hunting, or simply enjoying nature. Spotting scopes are designed to provide high magnification and clear images of distant objects. To find the best fit for you, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a spotting scope.MagnificationMagnification refers to how much larger an object appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is important because higher magnification allows you to see more detail. Spotting scopes typically offer magnification ranges from 15x to 60x. Lower magnifications (15x-30x) are easier to use and provide a wider field of view, making them ideal for scanning large areas. Higher magnifications (30x-60x) are better for detailed observations but can be harder to stabilize and may require a tripod. Choose a magnification range based on your primary use; for example, birdwatchers might prefer lower magnifications for easier tracking, while hunters might opt for higher magnifications for spotting game at long distances.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens of the spotting scope, measured in millimeters. This spec is important because a larger objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, resulting in brighter and clearer images, especially in low-light conditions. Common sizes range from 50mm to 100mm. Smaller lenses (50mm-60mm) are more compact and lightweight, making them easier to carry, but they may not perform as well in dim light. Larger lenses (80mm-100mm) provide better image quality and brightness but are bulkier and heavier. Consider where and when you'll be using the scope; if you need portability, go for a smaller lens, but if image quality is your priority, a larger lens is better.
Field of ViewField of view (FOV) is the width of the area visible through the scope at a given distance, usually measured in feet at 1,000 yards. A wider FOV allows you to see more of the landscape at once, which is useful for tracking moving objects or scanning large areas. Narrower FOVs provide more detail but limit the visible area. FOV is inversely related to magnification; higher magnifications result in narrower FOVs. If you need to observe fast-moving subjects or scan wide areas, choose a scope with a wider FOV. For detailed observations of stationary objects, a narrower FOV is sufficient.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance from the eyepiece to your eye where you can still see the full field of view. This is important for comfort, especially if you wear glasses. Longer eye relief (15mm or more) is more comfortable and allows you to see the entire image without straining your eyes. Shorter eye relief can make it difficult to use the scope for extended periods. If you wear glasses, look for scopes with at least 15mm of eye relief. For those without glasses, shorter eye relief may be acceptable, but longer eye relief is generally more comfortable for everyone.
Lens CoatingsLens coatings are applied to the glass surfaces to reduce glare and improve light transmission, resulting in clearer and brighter images. There are different levels of coatings: coated (a single layer on at least one lens surface), fully coated (a single layer on all air-to-glass surfaces), multi-coated (multiple layers on at least one lens surface), and fully multi-coated (multiple layers on all air-to-glass surfaces). Fully multi-coated lenses provide the best image quality and brightness. If you need the best possible image clarity and brightness, opt for fully multi-coated lenses. For casual use, lower levels of coating may be sufficient.
Waterproof and FogproofWaterproof and fogproof features protect the scope from moisture and internal fogging, which can occur due to temperature changes. These features are important for outdoor use in various weather conditions. Waterproof scopes are sealed to prevent water from entering, while fogproof scopes are filled with nitrogen or argon gas to prevent internal fogging. If you plan to use your spotting scope in wet or humid environments, or if you expect to encounter significant temperature changes, look for models that are both waterproof and fogproof to ensure durability and clear viewing.
Body DesignSpotting scopes come in two main body designs: straight and angled. Straight scopes have the eyepiece in line with the objective lens, making them easier to use for viewing objects at or below eye level. Angled scopes have the eyepiece set at an angle (usually 45 degrees) to the body, which can be more comfortable for extended viewing sessions and for sharing the scope with others. Choose a straight scope if you plan to use it primarily for viewing objects at eye level or if you need to quickly acquire targets. An angled scope is better for prolonged use, especially if you need to look up or down frequently.