Leica Ultravid 8x20 Noir

Amazing brightness for such small bins. Superb clarity. Even field of view was pretty good. Focus ring is spot on. Only slight downside is eye relief - would have preferred clicks as provided on larger bins. It's all or nothing with the sliding version and sometimes they get accidentally pushed in. Size is the best thing. By far the smallest in class but no quality sacrificed anywhere, particularly in the optics.

Good Points: Compact size, portability and build quality. Improvement Points: Nothing

Good Points: I bought these little binoculars for my husband as he had admired my ones. They are lightweight, fit in a pocket and perform excellently. We are birdwatchers and normally use our full size Swarovskis but when we go for a ramble or just a walk these are perfect. Good for finding and following birds at a distance and the close focus is great for resting butterflies. Improvement Points: The rain cover cups are not much use. Not easy to quickly remove/replace and easy to lose. Made a replacement cover for them.

Good Points: Compact size, great build quality and excellent clarity Improvement Points: Focus knob is too small and awkward, it also has a vague feel to it. Needs a compact neoprene case or similar as the provided case is far too bulky. It would also be nice to have objective lens covers.

Improvement Points: Case not as good as earlier 8x20 leather case. Sometimes difficult to place in and remove binoculars.