Compatible Optics & Accessories

Tips on Binoculars

The Snapzoom adapter is compatible with a wide variety of optics, but some will produce better results than others. Here are a couple of key binocular features we recommend for getting the most out of your Snapzoom.

Magnification, and stability

The numbers on the binoculars describe their strength, and light-gathering ability. For general hand held use we recommend binoculars with 8x-10x magnification, and larger 30mm-50mm objective lenses. This combination will be easier to hold steady, and the bigger objective lenses will give you better results in lower light.

Anything over 10x will need some type of support like a tripod, monopod, or have some kind of image stabilization built in.

Roof-prism binoculars

These binoculars are identified by their "straight-barrel", and are generally more compact than the Porro prism type. We suggest the roof prism because the center column of some porro binoculars can prevent the adapter from getting a good grip on both eyepieces. The adapter will still work, but may only be able to attach to one eyepiece.

Twist up eyecups

Just like our eyes, twist up eyecups help to position the camera within the binoculars eye relief. This position will give the camera the widest field of view, and the image will have a crisp black outer edge. Simply zoom out the black edge, or any vignetting for the best results.

ED glass and lens coatings

Because images will be captured through the binocular lenses we highly recommend investing in quality optics. We suggest lenses made with some type of Extra-low Dispersion or ED glass. These lenses have the ability to reduce chromatic aberration (color fringing), and produce images with better definition. Also these types of lenses generally have special coatings that increase visibility in low light, and make them easier to clean.