Swarovski CL Companion 8x30 Binoculars Review [2024]

Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars Review [2024]

The Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars are your key to unlocking nature’s secrets. Lightweight and stylish, they can be your travel, cruise or safari companion, ready to elevate experiences to new heights.

In spite of their compact size – powerful optics pack a punch, bringing distant birds and urban wonders into sharp, breathtaking focus.

But are they all they’re cracked up to be? Well, here I delve deep to see if the price tag matches the premium promise. 

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Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars

$1,449.00  in stock
5 new from $1,449.00
Amazon.com
as of June 29, 2024 11:07 AM

Compact, Classic, High End

9.5

The Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars are a compact powerhouse with classic looks for the well-heeled nature enthusiast. These premium binoculars deliver breathtaking detail and crisp magnification, making every bird watching adventure or safari holiday an unforgettable spectacle.

What I Like What I Don’t
  • Compact & Lightweight
  • Proprietary Anti-reflection Lens Coatings
  • Phase Corrected BAK4 Roof Prisms
  • Hybrid Aluminum-Polycarbonate Body
  • Finely Textured Rubber Armoring
  • Fog-proof and Waterproof
  • I can’t afford it … yet (but someday I will buy them)
  • The straps. I prefer neoprene straps

 

If you have the money and love traveling in style, then this lightweight and compact binocular from Swarovski has to be in your wish list. The Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars come in 3 variants (Urban Jungle, Wild Nature and Northern Lights). They also come in 8x and 10x magnification with a choice of green and anthracite colors in each combination.

The Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars are designed with simplicity and comfort in mind, providing you with the best possible viewing experience. Whether you’re out hunting or birdwatching, these binoculars won’t hinder your shot while still offering exceptional clarity.

One of the standout features of the Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars is its judder-free images, which ensure comfortable viewing even over extended periods of time.

With either the 8x or 10x magnification options, you’ll be able to enjoy detailed observations of distant wildlife, architectural details, musicals, or sporting events. In spite of the objective lens diameter being just 30mm, the binoculars have excellent light gathering.

The compact roof prism design further enhances the portability of these binoculars. With dimensions of 5 x 2.2 x 4.5 inches and a weight of just 17.3 oz, you’ll hardly notice them in your backpack or travel bag. 

The Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars are proudly manufactured by Swarovski Optik in Austria. Swarovski Optik is renowned for its commitment to quality and precision, and the CL Companion is no exception. With this product, Swarovski Optik aims to bring people closer to the world, through travel to urban centers and jungles alike.

Technical Specs

Dimensions 5 x 2.2 x 4.5 inches
Weight 17.3 oz
Magnification 8x
Objective Lens Diameter 30mm
Field of View 396′ at 1000 yds
Apparent Angle of View

7.6 deg

Eye Relief 16.0mm
Exit Pupil Diameter 3.8mm
Close Focus 9.8′
Prism Type Roof Prism
 

 

Outstanding Features
  • Incredibly Compact & Lightweight
  • High Performance Optics
  • Durable & Easy to Use
  • Textured rubber armoring for secure grip
  • Smooth and easy focus wheel operation
  • Twist-up eyecups with comfortable eye relief
  • Waterproof & Fog-proof
  • Great for Multiple Uses
 

Mind-blowing Optics

Full Disclosure: I do not own a Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars, but I certainly intend to, after my last trip to Las Vegas. 

I met Robert at a show in one of the fancy hotels. Robert was using Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars, every now and then for a better view. The binocular junkie that I am, I started talking to him about those binoculars, right after the show.

My jaw practically hit the floor when Robert, a fellow bird enthusiast, invited me to join him on a dawn hike at the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve and offered to swap our binoculars. Of course I said yes!

The first thing that struck me was the image clarity. Even in the early morning light, I could clearly see the details on the Anna’s Hummingbirds that we often spotted.

Colors were vibrant, true-to-life, without any noticeable fringing. Every image was sharper, brighter, richer than when seen through my binoculars. Robert could not fill me on the specific details about the lenses of Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars, but the proprietary coatings seemed top-notch, delivering excellent light transmission and low reflection.

The field of view is a tad narrower but didn’t feel restrictive in practice. Close focus distance is good enough for casual observation of insects and flowers. Overall, the optics deliver exceptional performance for their size and price.

The Look & Feel

The Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Urban Jungle Binoculars were pure joy to hold because of their compact size and comfortable feel. They fit snugly in my hand, thanks to the textured rubber armoring and cleverly designed bridge. 

While the overall materials may not be as top-tier as some high-end models from Swarovski, they still felt sturdy and protected them from scratches and moisture. 

The twist-up eyecups were comfortable even during extended use, and the focus wheel operated smoothly with just the right amount of resistance.

Size & Weight

Swarovski seems to have designed the Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars to neatly slip into the Goldilocks zone of binoculars: not too big, not too small, just right for comfortable viewing on the go.

They’re compact enough to slip into your coat pocket, but bigger than full compacts for easier handling and adjustments.

The 8x magnification brings distant details close enough, while their 17.3 oz weight is feather-light compared to other midsize options.

Bottomline

My dawn hike at the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve with Robert and his Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars was an eye-opener.

Packed in a pocket-friendly frame, they deliver jaw-dropping clarity and vibrant colors, bringing nature’s details close enough to touch. While the field of view is a tad narrow, the comfortable feel, feather-light weight, and unmatched image quality make Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars a game-changer. 

Now, the Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars ain’t cheap. But honestly, if you’re serious about appreciating nature’s finer details, especially in tricky lighting conditions, these binoculars are worth every penny.

Trust me, I’m already saving for my own pair! And so should you.

$1,449.00
in stock
5 new from $1,449.00
as of June 29, 2024 11:07 AM
Amazon.com

Choosing the Perfect Pair of Binoculars: A Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to selecting the perfect pair of binoculars, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, determine the purpose for which you will be using them.

Are you an avid birdwatcher, a wildlife enthusiast, or perhaps a keen traveler? This will help determine the appropriate magnification and objective lens size for your needs.

Secondly, consider the binoculars’ weight and size, as you’ll want something comfortable to carry if you are constantly on the move. Weight is also important if you need to hold the binoculars for extended periods such as in wildlife research.

Additionally, it’s important to assess the optical quality, such as lens coatings and prism type, for optimal clarity and brightness. Lastly, don’t forget to set a budget and compare different models within your price range.

Whenever possible, try to test the binoculars on your shortlist before making a purchase. Make sure they feel comfortable in your hands and provide a clear and sharp image. Read reliable reviews on sites like Binocular Buzz.

Here are a few things to check out before selecting the perfect binoculars to suit your needs and enhance your outdoor experiences!

  • Magnification: Determine the level of magnification that suits your needs. Swarovski Urban Jungle binoculars come in two popular magnification options; 8x and 10x. Choose the one that is best for you
  • Objective Lens Diameter: Consider the size of the objective lens, as it affects the amount of light gathered and the overall image brightness as well as the weight of the binoculars. Higher lens sizes, typically increase the weight. Swarovski Urban Jungle binoculars with an objective lens diameter of 30mm manages to excel in image quality and yet keep its weight down
  • Field of View: Look for binoculars with a wide field of view, providing a larger area visible at a specific distance. Swarovski Urban Jungle binoculars are known for their generous field of view, allowing you to observe wildlife and nature with ease
  • Lens Coatings: Check for high-quality lens coatings that enhance image clarity, reduce glare, and improve light transmission. Swarovski Urban Jungle binoculars feature superior lens coatings that provide exceptional optical performance
  • Ergonomics and Comfort: Consider the weight, size, and grip of the binoculars to ensure comfortable handling during extended use. Swarovski Urban Jungle binoculars are designed with ergonomics in mind, offering a lightweight and user-friendly design
  • Durability and Weather Resistance: Look for binoculars that are built to withstand outdoor conditions. The Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars are rugged and waterproof, making them ideal for adventurous nature enthusiasts
  • Accessories and Warranties: Check if the binoculars come with useful accessories such as lens covers, a carrying case, or a neck strap. Once again the Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Binoculars excel in this department. 

 

Experience nature like never before with the Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 Urban Jungle Binoculars – compact, stylish, and perfect for exploring the beauty of the great outdoors.

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