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Spotting Scopes

10 Best Spotting Scopes 2025 in the United States

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VOTJPYS

VOTJPYS Thermal Scopes for Rifle, 35mm (50 HZ) Night Vision Rifle scopes for Day/Night Hunting, 4899 Yards Detection Range, Digital Zoom 4X, No-Shutter Tech, 8 Mode Infrared Scope - Wi-Fi (35-640*512)

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#1

Winner

9.7 score

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Nikon

Nikon Prostaff 5 Proscope 82mm Angled Body with 20-60x Zoom, Black

Magnification: 20x to 60x
Objective Lens Size: 82mm
Lens Coating: Multicoated
Waterproof and Fogproof: Yes
Weight and Portability: 4.1 pounds

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Slide 1

VOTJPYS

VOTJPYS Thermal Scopes for Rifle, 35mm (50 HZ) Night Vision Rifle scopes for Day/Night Hunting, 4899 Yards Detection Range, Digital Zoom 4X, No-Shutter Tech, 8 Mode Infrared Scope - Wi-Fi (35-640*512)

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#2

9.4 score

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Nikon

Nikon PROSTAFF 3 16-48x60mm Outfit, Black

Magnification: 16-48x
Objective Lens Size: 60mm
Lens Coating: fully multicoated
Waterproof and Fogproof: waterproof, fogproof, shockproof
Weight and Portability: 10 ounces

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10% OFF
#3

9.1 score

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Gosky

Gosky Updated 20-60x80 Spotting Scopes with Tripod, Carrying Bag and Quick Phone Holder - BAK4 High Definition Waterproof Spotter Scope for Bird Watching Wildlife Scenery1,Green

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11% OFF
#4

8.9 score

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SVBONY

SVBONY SV28 Spotting Scopes with Tripod, Angled 25-75x70mm Spotter Scope with Phone Adapter, Waterproof Fogproof Spotting Scope for Bird Watching, Target Shooting, Wildlife Viewing

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8% OFF
#5

8.6 score

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Leupold

Leupold Mark 4 20-60x80mm Spotting Scope, TMR Reticle

Magnification: 20-60x
Objective Lens Size: 80mm
Lens Coating: DiamondCoat 2
Waterproof and Fogproof: Yes
Weight and Portability: 4 Pounds

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#6

8.3 score

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Swarovski

Swarovski ATS 80 HD W/ 20-60X (86614)

Magnification: 20-60x
Objective Lens Size: 80mm
Lens Coating: HD fluoride lenses
Weight and Portability: 5.6 Pounds

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#7

8.0 score

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Kowa

Kowa Sporting Optics 15-45x55 PROMINAR Pure Fluorite Angled Spotting Scope (TSN-553)

Magnification: 15x to 45x
Objective Lens Size: 55mm
Lens Coating: reduces glare, improves light transmission
Waterproof and Fogproof: Yes
Weight and Portability: 810g

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#8

7.7 score

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Kowa

Kowa TSN-99A PROMINAR Pure Fluorite Angled Spotting Scope with TE-11WZ II 25-60x Wide Angle Zoom Eyepiece

Magnification: 30-70x
Objective Lens Size: 99 mm
Lens Coating: Fluorite and XD lenses
Waterproof and Fogproof: Yes
Weight and Portability: 63.8 oz

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#9

7.4 score

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Celestron

Celestron Regal M2 100ED Spotting Scope – ED Glass for Hunting, Birding and Outdoor Actvities – Phase and Dielectric Coated BaK-4 Prism – Fully Multi-Coated Optics – Dual Focus – 22-67x Zoom Eyepiece

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10% OFF
#10

7.1 score

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Leupold

Leupold SX-5 Santiam HD 27-55x80mm Spotting Scope - Angled Eyepiece

Magnification: 27x to 55x
Objective Lens Size: 80mm
Waterproof and Fogproof: Yes
Weight and Portability: 3.13 kg

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Nikon Prostaff 5 Proscope 82mm Angled Body with 20-60x Zoom, Black

9.7  score

Nikon Prostaff 5 Proscope 82mm Angled Body with 20-60x Zoom, Black

Nikon

9.7  score

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Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,264
Magnification
Field of View

Most important from
51 reviews

Magnification
Amazingly better and stronger in power compared to other scopes, with clear edges and no blue fringing.
Field of View
Wide field-of-view and easy to adjust 20-60x zoom make it versatile for various viewing distances.

The Nikon Prostaff 5 Proscope 82mm is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable spotting scope, particularly enthusiasts of bird watching or nature observation. With an impressive 82mm objective lens, it strikes a great balance between size and brightness, allowing for clear images even in low-light conditions. The multicoated optics enhance brightness and contrast, ensuring that colors are rendered accurately, which is crucial for detailed observations. The adjustable zoom ranging from 20x to an impressive 60x provides versatility, accommodating various viewing distances and situations.

One of the notable strengths of this scope is its ergonomic and lightweight design, weighing just 4.1 pounds, making it manageable for extended use or transport. The Porro prism construction contributes to its compact form, while internal surface texturing minimizes reflective light loss, which can be beneficial during bright days.

The Prostaff 5 is also built to withstand challenging outdoor conditions, being both waterproof and fogproof thanks to its nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed construction. This feature adds to its longevity and reliability in different weather scenarios, a definite plus for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the built-in sliding sunshade helps prevent glare and protects the lens from dust and rain, enhancing the user experience. However, there are a couple of considerations to keep in mind. The weight, while portable, may still be a bit heavy for some users who prefer ultra-light models for hiking or extended treks. Also, while the magnification up to 60x is excellent for far distances, it may be challenging to stabilize at maximum zoom without a sturdy tripod, which might be an extra expense.

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Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,264
Magnification
Field of View

Most important from
51 reviews

Magnification
Amazingly better and stronger in power compared to other scopes, with clear edges and no blue fringing.
Field of View
Wide field-of-view and easy to adjust 20-60x zoom make it versatile for various viewing distances.
#2

Nikon PROSTAFF 3 16-48x60mm Outfit, Black

9.4  score

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Nikon PROSTAFF 3 16-48x60mm Outfit, Black

Nikon

9.4  score

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Rating
9.4
Magnification
Eye Relief
Weight and Portability

Most important from
25 reviews

Magnification
At higher magnifications, the scope maintains impressive clarity, even capturing distant objects clearly.
Eye Relief
Eye relief can be challenging, especially for those wearing glasses.
Weight and Portability
The scope is lightweight and portable, making it suitable for backpacking and long-range hunting.

The Nikon PROSTAFF 3 16-48x60mm Outfit is a versatile spotting scope with several notable strengths. With a magnification range of 16-48x and a 60mm objective lens, it provides good clarity and detail for distant objects, making it suitable for birdwatching, nature observation, and even some stargazing. The fully multicoated eco-glass lenses and prisms enhance image quality by reducing glare and increasing light transmission.

The inclusion of a compact tripod and carry case adds convenience for outdoor use and portability. Weighing only 10 ounces, it's relatively light and easy to carry. Moreover, its waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof design ensures durability in various weather conditions, making it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures. However, the field of view might be narrower at higher magnifications, which is a common trade-off for powerful zoom capabilities.

In summary, the Nikon PROSTAFF 3 16-48x60mm Outfit is a strong contender for enthusiasts looking for a reliable and portable spotting scope with good magnification and rugged durability.

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Rating
9.4
Magnification
Eye Relief
Weight and Portability

Most important from
25 reviews

Magnification
At higher magnifications, the scope maintains impressive clarity, even capturing distant objects clearly.
Eye Relief
Eye relief can be challenging, especially for those wearing glasses.
Weight and Portability
The scope is lightweight and portable, making it suitable for backpacking and long-range hunting.

Buying Guide for the Best Spotting Scopes

When choosing a spotting scope, it's important to consider your specific needs and how you plan to use the scope. Spotting scopes are used for a variety of activities such as bird watching, hunting, target shooting, and nature observation. The right spotting scope for you will depend on factors like magnification, objective lens size, field of view, and other features. Understanding these key specifications will help you make an informed decision and ensure you get the best scope for your needs.
MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer an object appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is important because higher magnification allows you to see more detail at greater distances. Spotting scopes typically have magnification ranges from 15x to 60x. Lower magnification (15x-30x) is suitable for general observation and provides a wider field of view, making it easier to locate objects. Higher magnification (30x-60x) is ideal for detailed viewing of distant objects but can result in a narrower field of view and may require a tripod for stability. Choose a magnification range based on your primary use; for example, bird watchers may prefer lower magnification for scanning large areas, while target shooters might need higher magnification for precise detail.
Objective Lens SizeThe objective lens size is the diameter 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 a brighter and clearer image, 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 and handle, but they may not perform as well in low 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, a smaller lens might be better, but for stationary use in varying light conditions, a larger lens is preferable.
Field of ViewField of view (FOV) is the width of the area you can see through the scope at a specific distance, usually measured in feet at 1,000 yards. This spec is important because a wider field of view makes it easier to locate and track moving objects. Spotting scopes with lower magnification generally have a wider field of view, while higher magnification narrows the field of view. If you need to scan large areas or follow fast-moving subjects, a wider field of view is beneficial. For detailed observation of stationary objects, a narrower field of view may be acceptable. Choose a field of view that matches your activity; bird watchers and nature observers often prefer a wider FOV, while target shooters may prioritize other specs.
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) allows you to see the entire image without having to press your eye close to the eyepiece, which is more comfortable for extended viewing sessions. Shorter eye relief can be uncomfortable and may not provide the full field of view for eyeglass wearers. If you wear glasses or plan to use the scope for long periods, look for a spotting scope with longer eye relief to ensure a comfortable viewing experience.
Lens CoatingLens coating refers to the special coatings applied to the lenses to reduce glare and improve light transmission, resulting in clearer and brighter images. This is important because better light transmission enhances image quality, especially in low-light conditions. There are different levels of lens coating: single-coated, fully-coated, multi-coated, and fully multi-coated. Single-coated lenses have a basic anti-reflective coating, while fully multi-coated lenses have multiple layers of coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces, providing the best image quality. For the best performance, especially in challenging light conditions, choose a spotting scope with fully multi-coated lenses.
Waterproof and FogproofWaterproof and fogproof features ensure that the spotting scope can withstand harsh weather conditions and prevent internal fogging caused by temperature changes. This is important for maintaining clear visibility and protecting your investment. 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 varying weather conditions or in humid environments, look for models that are both waterproof and fogproof to ensure reliable performance.
Weight and PortabilityWeight and portability refer to how easy it is to carry and handle the spotting scope. This is important if you plan to take the scope on hikes or travel with it. Lighter and more compact scopes are easier to transport and handle, but they may have smaller objective lenses and lower magnification. Heavier scopes often have larger lenses and higher magnification, providing better image quality but can be cumbersome to carry. Consider how you will use the scope; if you need to move frequently or cover long distances, a lighter and more portable scope is ideal. For stationary use, weight may be less of a concern.

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