deciding between 8x32 Explorer, Traveller, and Verano (1 Viewer)

[falcondog]

Looking for my first pair of binos. I want something compact that I can take on travels and occasional hikes and use for bird watching, wildlife watching, and sports/shows/general purpose. Everything I've read seems to point to 8x32 being the best for these criteria. I like Opticron because it seems to have a good reputation and also high grades on Ethical Consumer compared to other manufacturers (e.g. no ties to hunting).

Now, I've read nothing but great reviews on the Explorer. But at the same time I see people saying Traveller is worth the extra money. But I'm wondering what exactly makes it worth the extra money? Is it that much of a difference? Would Traveller be any better in terms of use in low light? Given that I'm not likely going to be comparing them side by side, am I even going to know what I'm missing out on if I go with the Explorer? I understand that if these binos will last me 10, 20, or even 30 years, that price difference won't be much in the long run. But at the same time I don't want to pay extra if I don't really need to.

The other option would be to see if I can track down any of the discontinued 8x32 Veranos. Mostly I like the idea that they're made in Japan and I've heard they're even a bit better than the Traveller, but at the cost of being a bit heavier/bigger.

 

[Cavendish]

I've owned two of the three models you mentioned (Explorer & Traveller) and these are my thoughts:

• The two models are roughly the same size and weight etc. They are both really light and make great travel/hiking bins.
• Optically they are both very good and would make most people happy. However the Traveller is indeed a little better.
• I've never compared them but I very much doubt there is any difference in low light performance. But if that's something that's important to you then maybe look at a lightweight 8x42?
• The fit & finish on the two Explorers in my family are spot on. Whereas the three Travellers I tried all had some QC issues - eg a wandering dioptre and badly fitting armour.

Both models will surely serve you well. But if you can go into a shop and can find a Traveller that passes your own quality checks, then I would say it's worth the extra spend. If you have to order online then my experience may suggest that the Explorer is less of a risk in terms of QC. Of course if you're in the UK you always have the right to return thanks to Distance Selling legislation.

 

[dipped]

Viking/RSPB and Canon binoculars also score highly on ethical grounds and might be worthy of consideration. I would recommend you trying out models if you can.

 

[lmans66]

Opticron makes a solid pair of binoculars for the money. I have the Verano's and when I was purchasing that pair, I compared them side-by-side to the Travelers. Size wise you won't know the difference and in fact that was something that never came up in my thinking as I compared the two. If you can find a used Verano, you have a nice pair. From what I understand the newer Traveler has been updated so if you go that route, get the newer version as they are more closely akin to the Verano.

I go to Australia all the time to visit family and the Verano's are my Australian binoculars so I don't have to keep taking a pair back and forth. If they are good enough for Australian birding, they are good enough for your patch. Best of luck.