According to recent surveys, today’s children play outside less than half of the time that their parents did. Specifically, those parents spent around 8 hours a week outdoors. Their children spend only 4 hours a week outside. It’s time to get our kids back out in nature! What better way to foster a love of nature and exploring than with a set of binoculars? With the best binoculars for kids, your child will feel like a true adventurer!
Best Kids Binoculars for Adventure Seekers
When searching for binoculars, you can choose between many different price points The Scotamalone Binoculars for Kids are under $10 yet offer 4x magnification and a 30mm objective lens; whereas the Think Peak Binoculars $30 but offer 8x magnification and are shockproof for outdoor adventures.
9-in-1 Explorer Kit
The 9-in-1 Explorer Kit is a fun starter kit for your little adventurer!
Primarily, my focus is on the binoculars in this kit. However, if you want your kid to get outside more, what better than a full explorer’s kit?
This hunter-green set includes a small treasure: a pair of binoculars, a magnifying glass, a flashlight, a handheld fan, and a 5-in-1 multitool.
The name of 9-in-1 is a tad misleading. 5 of those items are included in that multitool. Still, it’s a useful piece of equipment.
Some of the functions in the multitool are duplicates, such as its magnifying glass. Beyond that, though, it also has a compass, a thermometer, and a whistle!
The included binoculars are 4×30. They are shockproof and include a handy neck strap.
PROS
- Includes 5 fun adventure tools
- Comes with an attractive carrying case
- Encourages outdoor adventure play
CONS
- Lower magnification
Kids Binoculars by Bry & BVL
The Kids Binoculars by Bry & BVL is a surprisingly high-quality and affordable pair of binoculars for kids.
Back when I was little, binoculars looked juvenile. They were brightly colored pieces of plastic that looked fake from a mile away.
These binoculars by Bry & BVL are definitely not the toys of my youth. From looks alone, it beats my childhood set. Check out those fancy gold adjustments!
In reviews, parents did not hide their amazement. Many noted they couldn’t tell a difference in optics between this pair and their own grown-up set!
These binoculars emphasize safety. First, it includes a breakaway neck strap. Second, the eyecups are rubberized to protect your child’s face. Third, it offers a wide field of vision to prevent eye strain.
These compact binoculars fold in half and fit neatly in the included carrying case. They also come with a cleaning cloth. This product is protected by a lifetime replacement warranty.
PROS
- Excellent optics and wide field of view
- Offers safety features like rubber eyecups and breakaway strap
- Comes in 5 colors
CONS
- While advertised as “weatherproof,” binoculars are not waterproof
Scotamalone Kid Binoculars
The Scotamalone Kid Binoculars are perfect for a beginner.
These binoculars are a great no-fuss option. The focal length and pupil distance can be adjusted, but are easy and don’t require a lot of messing with.
The 4x magnification is lower than most options on this list. However, the larger 30mm objective lens allows for a better visual completely.
Basically, with a lower magnification but a higher objective lens, your child may need to step closer to that bird, but they’ll see it crystal clear.
These binoculars are made with non-toxic rubber, including padded eyecups. You can rest easy knowing only non-toxic materials are touching your child’s face.
Please note that the neck strap is not fashioned to break away. For younger children, this could be a safety or choking hazard.
PROS
- Made of non-toxic rubber
- 30mm objective lens
CONS
- Neck strap not breakaway
Binoculars for Kids by Think Peak Toys
The Binoculars for Kids by Think Peak Toys are binoculars that can take a beating.
If you plan on some rocky family adventures, you’ll want binoculars that can handle a drop. After all, what kid doesn’t drop everything by accident?
If you’re trekking uphill and the binoculars slip from your child’s hands, don’t worry. These Think Peak binoculars are coated in a shockproof and anti-friction rubber coating.
Still, these specs are made to ergonomically fit in a child’s hands. The sides have non-slip rubber grips for easier handling. The eyecups are specially padded for a kid’s comfort.
These 8x magnification binoculars are recommended for ages 3 years old and above. Still, the adjustments are easy enough for even a 3-year-old!
You can get these Think Peak binoculars in three bright colors: green, blue, and pink. A double breakaway neck strap is included.
PROS
- Shockproof
- Foldable and adjustable
- Comes in 3 colors
CONS
- Customer complaints of fogging lenses
Vanstarry Kids Binoculars
The Vanstarry Kids Binoculars are perfect binoculars for camping – or anything else!
If you’re anything like me, you might be wary after seeing just how affordable these binoculars are. You get what you pay for, right?
Rest easy, these binoculars deliver quality along with an incredibly affordable price. As it turns out, a low price can mean good things!
The lenses are considered fully multi-coated or FMC. Multi-coats transmit more light than a lens with only one coating.
Why is this important? Binoculars need to transmit light in order to magnify an image. The multi-coated lens can deliver a clearer visual because of increased light!
What makes this a winner for camping? First, it has a handy compass in between the eyecups. Second, as one parent noted, the bright colors make lost binoculars easy to locate!
These can also withstand the challenges of being owned by a kid. Drops are no problem, thanks to a shockproof rubber coating. To help prevent drops, there are rubber grips on the sides as well.
PROS
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Shockproof
- Comes in several bright colors
CONS
- Doesn’t include a carrying case
Dreamingbox Compact Binoculars
The Dreamingbox Compact Binoculars are binoculars in a cool design that deliver a crystal clear picture.
I love something about the design of these binoculars. I think they remind me of old space-age cartoons. These binoculars look like they could have been used by George Jetson.
I realize my kid and your kid will absolutely not get that reference. Hopefully, though, they will also be charmed by the cool smooth design of these binoculars.
I need to point out that these are waterproof. I was shocked to find that most binoculars aren’t waterproof, which eliminates them from all sorts of adventures!
A waterproof pair of binoculars means it can survive a dunk, but the lenses also won’t fog up from trapped moisture. Big win. Maybe it’s time for a kayaking trip?
On the optics side, the lenses are fully multi-coated and allow for a large visual field to create a crisp and full image.
PROS
- Waterproof
- 8x magnification
- Shockproof
CONS
- Customer complaints of difficulty focusing
Obuby Real Optics Mini Compact Binoculars
The Obuby Real Optics Mini Compact Binoculars is are lightweight and undeniably powerful.
These sleek binoculars don’t just look good. If you want to give your child professional binocular experience, Obuby is the way to go.
The high resolution of this 8x magnification, paired with a 7.2-degree viewing angle, creates a brilliant field of view for your kid.
If your kid is prone to dropping things, the combination of polycarbonate plastic and rubber creates shockproof armor. Oh, did I mention these are waterproof? Yes!
Your child will have no problem adjusting the distance or the focus of this easy-to-use pair of binoculars. Your little explorer will tinker with nature and independence.
The Obuby compact binoculars come in several colors, so you can surely find a hue to delight your child.
PROS
- Easy to use
- Shockproof and waterproof
- Comes in several colors
CONS
- Complaints of children removing eyecups
Kids Binoculars by Voya
The Kids Binoculars by Voya are a perfect gift for a little one.
These binoculars make a great gift because they already are packaged much like a gift set. This pack includes a pair of binoculars, a magnifying glass, and a compass wristwatch.
This summer, you can teach your children a whole host of STEM concepts, including magnification, wildlife identification, and directions.
A compass can help your child learn north versus south. The magnifying glass can bring into focus the huge world of insects. The binoculars are perfect for birdwatching.
The binoculars are adjustable in size to fit every child’s face. The minimum width is 3″. When unfolded, the binoculars are 4.5″.
The neck strap has been recently updated to be a wider size and it’s adjustable to suit your child’s needs.
PROS
- Includes magnifying glass and compass watch
- Includes adjustable neck strap
- Includes carrying case
CONS
- Customer complaints of children removing eyecups
QTECLOR Compact Mini Binoculars
The QTECLOR Compact Mini Binoculars is a highly-rated pair of binoculars.
To begin with, I want to point out these binoculars are waterproof and fog proof. If you’ve ever had to squint through a foggy lens, you’ll appreciate that particular feature.
Meanwhile, your kid will want these binoculars because of how much they look like “grown-up” binoculars.
These binoculars promise an HD view of the world. We’re talking “able to count the number of feathers on that bird” HD.
It can make HD claims, thanks to the fully multi-coated BAK-4 prism and its broadband blue film-protective lenses.
They are also easy to use. The binoculars fold to match your child’s eye distance. Likewise, the focus adjusting knob is super easy to turn.
PROS
- Full multi-coated BAK-4 prism.
- Includes diopter adjustment
- Waterproof and fog proof
CONS
- Not ideal for younger children
Kidwinz Original Compact Binoculars Set
The Kidwinz Original Compact Binoculars Set is a fan favorite among parents.
These binoculars may look simple, but they have been a hit with parents and kids worldwide.
These green and blue binoculars are size adjustable which is ideal for children who need smaller eye distance. The oversized focus adjustment in the middle to easy to maneuver for little hands.
Kidwinz’s binoculars have a diopter adjustment. This allows you to adjust for the differences in vision between your two eyes. Did you know our eyes see differently from each other?
The optics are great! With a magnification of 8 and an objective lens diameter of 21, little adventurers will be checking out details of robins and bluejays in awe.
Most important for this field tool, as you can imagine, is its durability. You’re covered – the shockproof rubber coating will keep your lenses safe.
PROS
- Has a diopter adjustment
- Easy to use
- Shockproof
CONS
- Smaller than expected
Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Kidnoculars
The Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Kidnoculars is a perfect gift for your favorite preschooler.
These Kidnoculars feature a bold claim: that they are the only binoculars designed specifically for preschoolers. In an article devoted to binoculars for kids, that seems inaccurate.
However, it isn’t completely untrue. The majority of binoculars on this list are intended for school-aged children. “Preschoolers” are typically 3 or 4 years old.
What makes these binoculars the choice for preschoolers? Notably, they are incredibly easy to use. In this case, all that is required to “use” these binoculars is to put them up to a pair of eyes.
Yes, these binoculars have no focus adjustment. They merely magnify. The absence of an adjustment could be a downside for a child more accustomed to binoculars already.
Meanwhile, these Kidnoculars are absolutely perfect as the first pair for a 3 or 4-year-old. They’ll love the ease of use and how they can play independently with them.
Likewise, the eyecups are 3 times larger than the average eyepiece. This protects little faces even better.
Preschoolers will enjoy 2x magnification. The binoculars come with an included breakaway neck strap.
PROS
- Easy-to-use
- Larger eyecups
- Made for preschoolers
CONS
- No focus adjustment
BlueCabi Shock Proof Binoculars
The BlueCabi Shock Proof Binoculars are easy-to-use and super durable.
BlueCabi is known for its professional adult binoculars. Luckily, they expanded their talents into binoculars for kids.
These binoculars are so easy, even a child can use them. The large focus knob is hard to miss and easy to twist. Fold the binoculars in or unfold them to get the perfect fit for your child’s eyes.
Rubber protects the lightweight binoculars and your child. The shockproof rubber coating prevents damage from drops, while the rubber-covered eyecups help prevent eye injuries.
Included in your purchase are a neck strap, a carrying bag, and a cleaning cloth for keeping those lenses shiny.
This BlueCabi product comes in three different colors, so be sure to pick your child’s favorite.
PROS
- Produced by a professional binocular company
- Easy to use
- Shockproof
CONS
- Thin neck strap
Outdoor Compact Binoculars by Occer
The Occer Compact Binoculars are binoculars made with optics.
These binoculars also have a 25 mm objective lens. Most children’s binoculars stick to 21 mm. With a large objective lens, these binoculars can allow more light through for better color saturation.
Size-wise, they are compact so it’s small enough for a child’s hands. These lightweight binoculars are also foldable with an included carrying strap so you do not have to worry about your child dropping them.
Lightweight or not, keep these binoculars for the older children and not the toddlers. These binoculars don’t have any special shockproof protection. They are waterproof which is a bonus for hiking or camping.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Waterproof
CONS
- No shockproof protection
Skygenius Small Binoculars
The Skygenius Small Binoculars are tiny but mighty binoculars.
These Skygenius binoculars weren’t created primarily for children, but they are marketed as a choice option for children and families nonetheless.
These high-quality binoculars are small enough for a child to use. At only .3 pounds, it’s one of the lightest pairs you can find for sale. In fact, it can fold to fit in a pocket!
Your child will enjoy 8 times the magnification with these genius binoculars. Thanks to a 1000 yard field of vision, a Bk7 roof prism, and multi-coated lenses, they’ll be seeing in near HD!
These binoculars only have a center focus adjustment, which is smooth and easy to turn.
While it’s easy to use, I wouldn’t recommend this pair for younger children. These binoculars are not shockproof or covered in a protective layer.
While the company does offer a 12-month worry-free warranty, it’s still best to keep these binoculars for older children.
PROS
- Compact and pocket-sized
- 8x magnification
- Bk7 roof prism and multi-coated lenses
CONS
- Too fragile for younger kids
BESPIN Wildlife Watching Binoculars
The BESPIN Wildlife Watching Binoculars are the ultimate birdwatching accessory!
Birdwatching is a wonderful activity to share with your children. It encourages a love of nature and empathy for animals.
BESPIN wants to make the best of your child’s birdwatching experience. These binoculars promise clear optics, ergonomic design, and shockproof rubber armor.
In terms of optics, the lenses are fully coated. This means the objective lens system has an anti-reflective coating. It also includes a bak-4 prism, which is usually found in high-end binoculars.
What does all this jargon mean for your child? Crystal clear optics! It will be like the birds are right in front of them.
Moreover, BESPIN wants your child to be able to properly identify those birds he or she scopes out. For that, there is an included bird map with 583 different types of birds!
PROS
- Bak-4 prism
- Fully coated lenses
- Included bird map
CONS
- Lenses are fragile
Learning Resources Big View Binoculars
The Learning Resources Big View Binoculars are a fantastic beginner’s binocular for toddlers and younger children.
These brightly-colored binoculars are recommended for ages 3 years and up. Of all the products on this list, this is the best option for the littlest adventurers.
You can also find more fun toys for 3-year-old boys and gifts for 4-year-old boys here on our site.
The main focus (pun intended) of this toy is to introduce the concept of binoculars to a newbie. While it does feature a 6x magnification, it’s probably not going to best the best at visuals far away.
In the center is a blue focus knob that is easy for toddlers to adjust. This allows them to experiment independently with magnification and its effects.
I highly recommend this Learning Resources pair of binoculars for the 3 or 4-year-old in your life. They’ll have so much fun while exploring early science concepts.
The lenses are plastic and not glass. The rubber eyepieces are soft and safe. The breakaway lanyard will snap open to prevent a choking hazard.
PROS
- Introduces the concept of magnification to young toddlers and children
- Safety features like a breakaway lanyard and rubber eyecups
- Encourages independent exploring
CONS
- Not meant for older kids
Living Squad Shock Proof Binoculars
The Living Squad Shock Proof Binoculars are a fun set of binoculars!
What first caught my eye about these binoculars are the cool colors they come in. Personally, I’m a fan of the purple and teal
Still, there’s more to these binoculars than some pretty hues. So many reviewers were shocked to find the optics of these affordable binoculars were comparable to pricier pairs!
These binoculars are compact enough to fit in the palm of your hand. They are small but tough; Living Squad binoculars are shockproof. Anti-friction plastic and shockproof rubber coating keep these binoculars safe from drops.
Kids will love these binoculars because they are perfectly sized for their hands. Also, the adjustments are easy enough to do without adult help!
PROS
- Durable and shockproof
- Easy-to-use
- Includes case, neck strap, hand strap, and carabiner
CONS
- Hand strap can untie easily
Lucky Bums Compact Binoculars
The Lucky Bums Compact Binoculars is a super lightweight pair of binoculars.
I didn’t put this pair of binoculars on this list only for its fun name, but it didn’t hurt its case either.
Beyond the name, the company Lucky Bums is a family-oriented venture started by a mom and dad. The brand is committed to outfitting “little explorers.”
Why are owners of these binoculars so-called “lucky bums”? Mainly because they own a quality lightweight pair of binoculars. Oh, did we mention affordable too?
At only 6.5 ounces, even your youngest can carry a pair. What if when they don’t so much carry them, but drop them instead? This product is armored in a water-resistant rubber casing.
If your little one is big time into birdwatching, they’ll love the 288 feet field of view with multiple focus settings adjustments. Adjustments are easy enough for children to do!
Like most good binoculars, this set folds in half to fit conveniently in a small case.
PROS
- 288 feet field of vision
- Super lightweight
- Comes in 3 colors
CONS
- Smaller than expected
Backyard Safari Field Binocs
The Backyard Safari Field Binocs are ready for any adventure!
These hunter green binoculars are perfect for kids looking to discover all of the wildlife in their backyard. They’ll love the optics and the 5 times magnification.
The sides are outfitted with rubberized hand grips. In case that isn’t enough, the breakaway lanyard will keep the binoculars close and safe.
The bright yellow focus knob is easy for kids to manage. While they’re scoping out wildlife, the eyecups lined with soft rubber will keep them comfortable.
Backyard Safari sells an entire line of adventure gear made for encouraging outdoor exploration. In fact, the cargo vest and camo vest have a special pocket intended for this very pair of binoculars.
To make the backyard adventure complete, you can also get the brand’s tent, lantern, and bucket hat.
PROS
- Easy to use
- Rubberized hand grips
- Part of the Backyard Safari line of toys
CONS
- Lower magnification
Comparing the Best Kids Binoculars
The table below compares only the recommended products on this page. A low or high Price means it is low or high compared to the other products listed. The Popularity Score reflects how often readers click on and buy the product. The Quality Score is our assessment of the overall performance and satisfaction with the product compared to others in the table.
| Outdoor Compact Binoculars by Occer | 9.9 | - | 35.99 |
| Kidwinz Original Compact Binoculars Set | 8.3 | 9.2 | 29.99 |
| Living Squad Shock Proof Binoculars | 9.9 | -0.2 | 29.99 |
| QTECLOR Compact Mini Binoculars | 9.9 | 9.2 | 25.99 |
| Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Kidnoculars | 7.3 | 8.6 | 24.99 |
| 9-in-1 Explorer Kit | 9.0 | 9.0 | 24.99 |
| Dreamingbox Compact Binoculars | 9.9 | 8.6 | 24.99 |
| Binoculars for Kids by Think Peak Toys | 9.9 | 9.2 | 24.49 |
| Kids Binoculars by Bry & BVL | 7.6 | 9.0 | 23.98 |
| Obuby Real Optics Mini Compact Binoculars | 9.9 | 9.2 | 20.99 |
| Skygenius Small Binoculars | 9.9 | 8.8 | 18.99 |
| Backyard Safari Field Binocs | 6.1 | 8.6 | 14.99 |
| Learning Resources Big View Binoculars | - | 8.8 | 14.99 |
| Vanstarry Kids Binoculars | 9.9 | 8.6 | 8.50 |
| Lucky Bums Compact Binoculars | 9.9 | -0.2 | 8.04 |
| Scotamalone Kid Binoculars | 9.9 | 8.6 | 7.55 |
| BlueCabi Shock Proof Binoculars | - | 8.8 | - |
| BESPIN Wildlife Watching Binoculars | 9.9 | -0.2 | - |
| Kids Binoculars by Voya | 3.9 | 8.8 | - |
Buying Criteria for Binoculars For Kids
Price
In my binocular research, I encountered articles that listed the best binoculars for children over $100. I was slightly gobsmacked at the price point.
Most parents don’t spend such large sums of money on toys for children. Why? Because we understand kids have a tendency to destroy things, or quickly lose interest in them.
Your child deserves a quality pair of binoculars to enhance his or her outdoor adventures. Nature is meant to experienced up close. On the other hand, you deserve to keep some money in your wallet, don’t you?
On this list, we only include affordable options.
Size
Kids have such small hands, don’t they? One of the first things we as parents marvel at is our newborn’s teeny tiny hands. After a few years, their hands aren’t quite that tiny anymore, but they still are small!
With this in mind, adult binoculars will be more than just a handful for a child. Binoculars for kids are made in a just-right size.
The smaller size allows children to reach the adjustments themselves, fostering independence. They can also carry them easier, meaning fewer drops.
Durability
Kids are not known for being careful or gentle with their belongings. If you aren’t sure of that fact, ask half of the toys my son owns.
True binoculars intended for adults are fragile. The glass lenses only are childproof no-no.
Binoculars created with children in mind tend to be durable. Binoculars that promised to be shockproof stood out among the ranks.
The younger your child, the more important it is for the binoculars to be able to withstand a drop. Still, even the most careful of older kids can have an accident.
For less stress on any adventure, stick with shockproof and durable binoculars. For more safety, look for waterproof ones!
Magnification
Magnifying is, of course, the entire point of binoculars. Magnification enlarges our perception of an object. Basically, we can see things far away like they’re close to us.
This is what your kid is going to love. There’s a woodpecker in your backyard, pecking away at the fence. With binoculars, it’s like he’s right next to the bird.
For little ones, a magnification of 8 is usually adequate enough. The level of magnification is signified by the number printed on the binoculars.
For more information on the levels of magnification, check out the FAQs below.
Field of View
If you aren’t familiar with the concept of the field of view, think about televisions. Before the advent of flat screens, TVs tended to be square. As a result, the image was square too. Suddenly, everyone owned a flat-screen TV. Hollywood took note and now everything is made in a wide-screen format.
If you watch that square-shaped format on a flat-screen TV, you have to deal with the black bars on the side of the screen. Essentially, some of the pictures is “cutaway.” You see more of the image on a wide-screen view.
A wide-screen view is like a wide field of view. It offers a more complete picture. If a pair of binoculars have a narrow field of vision, it’s like watching a square image with the black bars.
For kids, you should aim for a wide field of vision. It’s easier for little ones to work with.
FAQs – Kids Binoculars
Do kids need really need specialized binoculars?
Yes. A child shouldn’t really be handed an adult set of binoculars. For one, they will most likely be too heavy for them. Plus, the binoculars will be too large for their face.
Binoculars specially made for children give young ones a great experience without the added bulk and features they don’t need.
Likewise, children’s binoculars tend to have a large field of view. This means the image you see through the optics is wide.
Why is this important for kids? Adult binoculars have narrow fields of view. This makes it hard for children to see what they are trying to magnify. It’s easier for them to have a large picture.
What are the benefits to kids using binoculars?
Binoculars can introduce a wide range of activities to your child. More likely, it allows your child to participate in activities that already see you doing!
Are you a birdwatcher? Your little one has noticed and probably wants to be just like you. Time for her own set of binoculars so she can scope out that specimen with you.
Is your family a group of happy campers? Binoculars bring a camping trip up several fun levels. Equip everyone with their own set of field glasses are see who can find the most wildlife.
Besides simply encouraging more family time, binoculars get kids outside! Whether it’s from the top of a mountain or the top of a wooden swing set, kids can find all kinds of things to look at outdoors.
You may not realize though, that binoculars can help your child’s vision. According to a study, it stimulates blood circulation in the eyes. Glasses are expensive – get some binoculars!
What do the numbers on binoculars mean?
If you aren’t familiar with binoculars, you might not be sure why all the product titles include a number. Binoculars are classified by two numbers: strength and size.
For example, many binoculars are 8×21. The first number designates the binoculars’ magnification strength. In 8×21, that means the view is magnified 8 times.
The second time is the size of the objective size. In simpler terms, it’s the diameter of the lens or objectives. Generally, the higher an objective size, the more you see.
Most adults look for high magnification and a larger objective size.
However, there is a caveat when it comes to children. For kids, it’s better to have a wide field of vision. A narrow field of vision can make it hard for them to focus on a subject.
Higher magnification means a narrower field of vision. For children, anything 8 or lower for magnification is sufficient enough. This allows them to see far away but maintain a wide field of vision.
