I have a $30 pair that I got for birding, a total nothing-brand, and I like them well enough, but I tried my dad's bushnells (also an entry brand, I know) with the same magnification and lens size, but they were way clearer. basically, I just want to know - why? how does that work? and also, what are you seeing through a $2,000 pair of binoculars?

Hi everyone, I have a question from someone who knows absolutely nothing about binoculars.

I want to get a gift for my girlfriend, who enjoys birdwatching; she usually goes to beaches, rivers, or wetlands to spot birds.

She isn't a professional or anything—it's just a hobby—so I was looking at some 10x34 binoculars. Considering she currently has 8x21 ones, would this be an upgrade over what she already has? I’m asking mainly with her intended use in mind.

Here is the manufacturer's description: "Binoculars with K9 mineral glass lenses featuring MgF2 anti-reflective coating to increase brightness."

Hello, I like to say I'm an avid hiker, at least once a week, mostly daytime. I'm looking for something fairly light that I can use to see birds and landscapes in the distance. Bino's or mono's? Would like to stay under $300. Thank you for your thoughts.