Bushnell Compact Instant Replay 8 x 30
Considering Bushnell's reputation for quality it's not surprising that the "Instant Replay" has a brighter image and more precise focusing than its competition. Since its camera lacks a separate lens, this advantage pays off as it records exactly what you see. Its 5 megapixel resolution is outstanding for a camera binocular, and it can capture TV quality clips at 30 frames per second. A pop-up color LCD makes image adjustments easy, and an SD card slot provides plenty of storage capacity. In the areas that matter most this is the one to get.
Meade CaptureView 8x30
Weather conditions don't always cooperate with sightseeing activities, but Meade's CaptureView can take whatever nature brings. This waterproof camera binocular has a responsive 3.2 megapixel sensor that improves the quality of low light photos. Its BAK-4 prism glass delivers better brightness and sharpness than the BAK-7 used by other manufacturers. While video quality is below Bushnell's, the CaptureView continuously records what you're seeing in adjustable memory increments of five to 20 seconds. You'll never miss a shot since you can save the action right after it happens with the press of a button.
Celestron VistaPix 8x32
The primary advantage of Celestron's VistaPix is its 32 mm objective lens, which gives it better light gathering ability. You'll see better in low-light conditions, and through the flip-up screen, you can zoom in up to 32x on image captures to check your focus. Video enthusiasts should look elsewhere as VistaPix's 3.1 megapixel sensor and 15 frame-per-second video capture rate don't measure up to Bushnell's front runner in this category.
Barska Point N View 8x32
The highly regarded Barska Point N View is one competitor that can match the VistaPix's image brightness. It boasts a 32 mm objective lens, 5 megapixel sensor and an SD card slot (that enables it to capture continuous video). It also has a 4x digital zoom that can multiply its 8x optical magnification to 32x. Digital zooms decrease image quality, but they're handy with distant subjects.
MagPix 10x25 SX3
In 2005 MagPix was American Photo magazine's editor's choice. It has received good press over the years along with positive user reviews. It was designed to capture high-speed motion and its 1/8000 second shutter speed blows away Bushnell's mediocre 1/1000 second shutter. The small objective lens make this camera binocular better suited for mid-day use, but its 10x optical magnification makes it easier to see detail at a distance. Since the camera can be left on indefinitely, you won't miss a shot while you're waiting for it power up.
