Binoculars & Monoculars

Binoculars & Monoculars
Choosing the right binoculars or monoculars can feel overwhelming—there are hundreds of options across wildly different price points and use cases. At Sirius Optics, our team of astronomers and nature lovers are here to cut through the confusion and help you find the perfect pair for your needs and budget.
Not sure where to start? Visit our Brisbane showroom, try a few pairs side by side, or give us a call. And if you buy online and the binoculars aren't quite right, we offer a 30-day return policy for store credit.
Understanding Binocular Specs: What Do the Numbers Mean?
You'll see binoculars described with numbers like 8x42, 10x50, or 10-30x50. Here's what they mean:
- The first number is the magnification. An 8x42 binocular magnifies 8 times; a 10-30x50 is a zoom binocular ranging from 10x to 30x.
- The second number is the diameter of the front (objective) lens in millimetres. A larger objective lens gathers more light, giving you a brighter image — especially useful in low light conditions like dawn, dusk, or stargazing.
The trade-off: larger lenses mean larger, heavier binoculars. For handheld use, 42mm is a popular sweet spot between brightness and portability.
What Else Should You Consider?
Beyond magnification and lens size, a few other features are worth knowing:
- Waterproofing & fogproofing
Most modern binoculars are sealed against moisture and nitrogen-purged to prevent internal fogging, making them suitable for outdoor use in all conditions.
- Size & weight
Binoculars with 50mm+ objective lenses can become tiring to hold for extended periods. If you plan to use them for birdwatching or hiking, compact or mid-size models are often more comfortable.
- Specialist features
Marine binoculars may include built-in compasses and floating designs; astronomy binoculars prioritise large apertures for maximum light gathering; image-stabilised models reduce shake at higher magnifications.
What About Monoculars?
Think of a monocular as a compact, single-eye alternative to binoculars — lighter, more pocketable, and surprisingly capable. Some people call them "half a binocular", but there's nothing half-hearted about them. Modern monoculars can include night vision technology, smartphone adapters, and even automatic bird and wildlife identification — making them a versatile choice for travellers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
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AUD $1,490.00Backorder: Contact US for ETA
The traditional form of observation. The Habicht binoculars are the classic optical system that has been tried and tested and continually developed for generations. Their light-alloy housing and extremely sturdy yet lightweight design make them particularly suitable for taking on excursions.
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AUD $299.00Backorder Available
10x40 roof prism focus-free binoculars.
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AUD $3,250.00Backorder: Contact US for ETA
EL 10x42 binoculars capture the crucial details with their 10x magnification.
Ideal for observing in open paddock and over long distances.
NOTE: The EL model binoculars do not come with a field carry bag. The field bag has to be purchased separately.
Phils Review: "I love using these binocualrs for general field work and have found them to be most useful when I'm working out on the farm and looking for those pesky feral animals 500 meters away down in the paddock."
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AUD $2,770.00Backorder: Contact US for ETA
THE IMPRESSIVE, MULTIPURPOSE BINOCULARS
EL 42 binoculars combine size, weight, and optical performance to give the perfect product.
They are multipurpose and reliable, suitable for use both during the day and at twilight.
Nature lovers appreciate the unique close-up setting of 1.5 m and the rapid, precise focusing mechanism.
NOTE: The EL model binoculars do not come with a field carry bag. The field bag has to be purchased separately.
Phils Review: "The EL 8.5 x 42 binoculars are my absolute favourite Swarovski binocular. This is the perfect bino for birdwatching in close cover. I love the pin sharp optics and rich crisp colour. The pop out centre focus button seals the deal with its simplicity and makes this bino a joy to use."
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AUD $4,360.00Backorder: Contact US for ETA
EL 12x50 binoculars provide even more details thanks to their 12x magnification. Their ideal weight balance means that they fit perfectly in your hand – brilliant for lengthy periods of observation over long distances.
NOTE: The EL model binoculars do not come with a field carry bag. The field bag has to be purchased separately.
Phils Review: "These binos are the business if you want that extra punch to glass the hills or laying in cover from a distance to track flighty nervous wildlife. The optics are awesome on dusk when animals are most active and yield beautiful crisp detail."
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AUD $3,420.00Backorder: Contact US for ETA
SLC 8x56 W B
With the high-luminosity SLC 8x56 model, you will benefit from binoculars that offer exceptionally high transmission and you will be thrilled by their optics that have been optimized for night use, with outstanding edge-to-edge sharpness and a large field of view. The extended depressions for improved grip and the balanced weight ensure maximum comfort when using them.
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AUD $3,500.00Backorder: Contact US for ETA
The new high-luminosity SLC 10x56 binoculars provide you with the benefit of the 10x magnification, so that you can make out details better. The optimized optical system for night use, combined with the outstanding edge-to-edge sharpness and a large field of view make observation easy for you even in poor light conditions. The extended depressions for improved grip and the balanced weight also ensure maximum comfort when using them.
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AUD $3,610.00Backorder: Contact US for ETA
The SLC 15x56 binoculars are the expert for observing over long distances. Their 15x magnification and optimized optics, combined with outstanding edge-to-edge sharpness allow you to see special moments, even over expansive areas. The extended depressions for improved grip and the balanced weight ensure maximum comfort when using them.
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AUD $1,900.00Backorder: Contact US for ETA
You’ll never miss out with the new CL Companion. These elegant binoculars with impressive optics fit perfectly in your hand. They are always with you to ensure you make the most of every sighting.
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AUD $1,900.00Backorder: Contact US for ETA
THE FREEDOM TO EXPERIENCE MORE
You’ll never miss out with the new CL Companion. These elegant binoculars with impressive optics fit perfectly in your hand. They are always with you to ensure you make the most of every sighting.
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