Best Spotting Scope For Digiscoping (2024 Updated)

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If you're looking for the best spotting scope for digiscoping, then you're in the right place. Digiscoping is the art of taking pictures or videos of distant subjects using a spotting scope and a camera. It's a popular hobby among birders, nature enthusiasts, and wildlife photographers. However, finding the right spotting scope for digiscoping can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to the game. There are several factors to consider, such as magnification, aperture, image quality, and compatibility with your camera.

To help you out, we've put together a short guide on what to look for when choosing the best spotting scope for digiscoping. Here are five key points to consider:

1. Magnification: Look for a spotting scope with a high magnification range, preferably between 20x and 60x. This will allow you to zoom in on distant subjects and capture them in detail.

2. Aperture: The larger the aperture, the more light the spotting scope can gather, resulting in brighter and clearer images. Look for an aperture of at least 60mm.

3. Image Quality: The image quality of the spotting scope is crucial for digiscoping. Look for a spotting scope with high-quality optics, such as ED glass, that can deliver sharp and clear images.

4. Compatibility: Make sure the spotting scope is compatible with your camera. Look for spotting scopes with a universal camera adapter or a specific adapter for your camera model.

5. Price: Finally, consider your budget. High-end spotting scopes can be expensive, but they offer superior image quality and durability. However, there are also affordable options that can deliver decent results.

By considering these key points, you'll be able to find the best spotting scope for digiscoping that suits your needs and budget. Happy digiscoping!

10 Best Spotting Scope For Digiscoping

1. Celestron Regal M2 80ed Spotting Scope With Fully Multi-Coated Optics, Ed Objective Lens, Dual Focus, And 20-60x Zoom Eyepiece For Bird Watching, Hunting, And Digiscoping.

The Celestron Regal M2 80ED Spotting Scope is a must-have for birdwatchers, hunters, and anyone who loves to explore the great outdoors. This high-quality spotting scope boasts an Extra-low dispersion (ED) objective lens, which dramatically reduces chromatic aberration, resulting in razor-sharp images with superb color correction. You'll be able to enjoy true-to-life color with enhanced resolution and contrast, making it easier than ever to spot and identify wildlife in their natural habitats.

The Regal M2 80ED is also fully multi-coated with Celestron's proprietary XLT optical coatings, which maximizes light transmission through the optical path for brighter, clearer images. This coating is the same used on observatory-class telescopes, making this spotting scope an excellent choice for those who demand the best.

The included 20-60x zoom eyepiece allows you to adjust the magnification to suit your needs, while the Regal M2 ED's rotating tripod mount allows you to position the eyepiece at the most comfortable viewing angle. Additionally, the spotting scope comes with a padded view-through case, an objective cover, eyepiece cover, storage covers for the eyepiece and eyepiece port, a T-mount adapter for attaching your DSLR camera for digiscoping, a cleaning cloth, and an instruction manual.

Celestron is a leader in sport optics and telescopes, based in California since 1960. When you purchase the Regal M2 80ED, you can buy with confidence knowing that you'll receive a Limited Lifetime warranty and unlimited access to technical support from their team of US-based experts.

In summary, the Celestron Regal M2 80ED Spotting Scope is an unbeatable choice for anyone who demands the best in quality and performance from their outdoor gear. With its quality ED objective lens, XLT lens coatings, and included accessories, this spotting scope is a must-have for anyone who loves the great outdoors.

2. Gosky 20-60×80 Waterproof Spotting Scope For Outdoor Activities With Tripod And Adapter.

The Gosky 20-60 X 80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope is an exceptional equipment for bird watching, target shooting, archery, and other outdoor activities. It boasts of a fully multi-coated 80mm green film objective lens, eyepiece, and quality prism inside, guaranteeing the key elements of a spotting scope. This feature makes it possible for users to see brighter, clearer, and crisper images.

The scope has a variable magnification of 20x to 60x, making it easy for users to zoom in on their targets. Additionally, it has a dynamic lens focusing system that allows for even more precise targeting. The scope is designed primarily for bird watching, wildlife, and scenery observation.

The Gosky 20-60 X 80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope is constructed with a durable Magnalium framework and rubber armor. This tight-fitting protection ensures that it can withstand even the toughest weather conditions. The shock-absorbing rubber armor also provides maximum protection, while the eyepiece shield can be stretched out to protect the eyepiece.

This scope has a waterproof design with sealing properties that ensure its living waterproof function. It can be used in any weather condition, even in the rain, without worrying about damage to the equipment. This feature makes it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities in wet or damp environments.

The Gosky 20-60 X 80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope comes with a digiscoping adapter, which enables users to take pictures or record videos of their targets. The original picture is in a circle, but users can zoom in on their camera to get a full-screen picture. The scope also comes with a carrying case, eyepiece and lens protection covers, cleaning cloth, and handy straps.

In summary, the Gosky 20-60 X 80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope is a versatile and durable equipment that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Its fully multi-coated lens, dynamic lens focusing system, and waterproof design make it an excellent choice for bird watching, target shooting, archery, and other outdoor activities. With the digiscoping adapter, users can capture images and videos of their targets to keep memories of their outdoor adventures.

3. Celestron Nexyz Dx Kit: Digiscope Your Telescope Or Spotting Scope With This 3-Axis Universal Smartphone Adapter And Bluetooth Shutter Release Remote. Capture Images And Video Easily.

The Celestron NexYZ DX Kit is the perfect solution for anyone looking to capture detailed images and video through their telescope or spotting scope using their smartphone. The kit includes the popular NexYZ smartphone adapter and a Bluetooth shutter release remote, providing users with everything they need to take high-quality astroimaging and digiscoping shots.

One of the standout features of the NexYZ DX Kit is its patented NexYZ smartphone adapter, which is designed to fit any eyepiece from 35mm to 60mm in diameter, including telescopes equipped with 1.25-inch or 2-inch eyepieces, spotting scopes, monoculars, and binoculars. This makes the kit highly versatile and compatible with a wide range of optical instruments.

The NexYZ smartphone adapter is also highly adjustable, with three-axis adjustment that allows users to center their phone over the eyepiece and adjust its position until they have the entire field of view in their shot. This is a significant improvement over other smartphone adapters, which often only offer limited adjustment in two axes.

The phone platform of the NexYZ DX Kit is also fully adjustable, accommodating a wide range of smartphones, including larger "phablet" devices like the iPhone 8 Plus and the latest Samsung Galaxy devices. The secure platform can hold heavier devices with ease, thanks to the NexYZ's strong metal spring and threaded twist lock.

To ensure users can capture the best possible images, the NexYZ DX Kit also includes a Bluetooth shutter release remote, which allows users to trigger the camera's shutter on any Android or iOS smartphone without touching the device's screen or buttons. This eliminates blurriness in images caused by the phone or telescope shaking due to pressure from manually pressing the button.

One of the other standout features of the NexYZ DX Kit is its ease of use. Switching between devices, eyepieces, or optical instruments requires only slight adjustments to re-center the camera over the new eyepiece. And, if multiple people want to capture a shot through the optic, NexYZ's simple spring-loaded clamps make it easy to remove one device and replace it with another in seconds.

Overall, the Celestron NexYZ DX Kit is an excellent choice for anyone looking to capture high-quality images and video through their telescope or spotting scope using their smartphone. Its patented NexYZ smartphone adapter, Bluetooth shutter release remote, and ease of use make it a top choice for astroimaging and digiscoping enthusiasts.

4. Capture Telescope Images Through Your Smartphone With Celestron's Nexgo Adapter.

The Celestron – NexGO 2-Axis Universal Smartphone Adapter is an innovative device that enables users to capture images and video through their telescope or spotting scope using their smartphone. This adapter is designed to work with a wide range of mobile phone models, including the latest devices from Apple, Samsung, and Google, making it a versatile and convenient accessory for any avid stargazer.

The NexGO adapter is easy to use and features two directional knobs (X and Y axis) that quickly and accurately align the phone's camera with the eyepiece. This allows users to capture stunning images and videos of celestial bodies with ease. The adapter also allows for tension adjustments, which ensures that the phone remains firmly in place during use.

Constructed with a durable metal frame and polymer body, the NexGO adapter is built to withstand rigorous field use. It fits any eyepiece from 25.4mm to 44.45mm in diameter, making it compatible with most telescopes with 1.25 eyepieces. The adapter also features a charging port, which allows users to charge their phone while using the adapter.

The NexGO adapter is an excellent choice for amateur astronomers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to capture stunning images and videos through their telescope or spotting scope. The adapter's universal compatibility ensures that it will work with most mobile phone models, making it a versatile and convenient accessory for any stargazing adventure.

Overall, the Celestron – NexGO 2-Axis Universal Smartphone Adapter is a must-have accessory for anyone interested in capturing stunning images and videos of celestial bodies. Its easy-to-use design, durable construction, and universal compatibility make it a top choice for amateur astronomers and nature enthusiasts alike.

5. Phone Skope Universal Digiscoping Kit For Multiple Devices And Activities (U1)

The Phone Skope Lollipop Universal Digiscoping kit is a versatile solution for capturing long distance images through a variety of optical devices. Designed for use with spotting scopes, binoculars, microscopes, zoom cameras, and phone scope lenses, this kit is perfect for hunting, biology, birdwatching, and birding enthusiasts.

The kit includes a lollipop universal phone case that fits most phones, allowing you to use your phone's camera to capture images through your optical device. The U-2 universal optic adapter, which fits 1.7"-2.335" optic diameters, is also included. This adapter is compatible with most optics, but it is important to double check your specific device's diameter before purchasing.

As a Phone Skope product, this kit is proudly made in the USA and comes with a lifetime warranty. The company stands behind their product and is committed to providing excellent customer service and support.

The Phone Skope Lollipop Universal Digiscoping kit makes it easy to capture high-quality images from a distance. Whether you are a hunter trying to identify game from afar, a biologist studying wildlife, or a birdwatcher documenting rare species, this kit can help you get the perfect shot.

Overall, the Phone Skope Lollipop Universal Digiscoping kit is a must-have accessory for anyone who wants to capture long distance images with ease. With its versatile design, high-quality construction, and lifetime warranty, this kit is sure to become a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.

6. Phone Skope Digiscoping Kit For Iphones And Samsung With Phonecase, Adapter, And Cloth.

The Phone Skope Complete Digiscoping Kit is an all-in-one system designed to allow you to capture, record, and share everything you see through your lens onto your smartphone. With this product, you'll receive an impact-absorbing, thermo-polymer ABS phone case, removable adapter plate receiver, optic eyepiece adapter, carrying case, and lens cloth.

The adapter is designed to perfectly align your smartphone camera to the Vortex Razor HD binoculars, Swarovski EL, El Range, and SLC binoculars, allowing you to see through your lens with crystal-clear clarity and vivid precision. This makes it easy to use and eliminates the need to squint to look through your optics.

The Phone Skope is complete with superior features to give you the best performance available. It has ergonomic side grooves for a secure grip, reducing the risk of dropping your smartphone. It also has non-marring foam protection pads and HD corner bumpers that provide ultimate protection.

This specific Phone Skope is compatible with the Apple iPhone XR. It has a removable interlocking receiver plate and “twist lock” eyepiece adapter to ensure a rock-solid connection. With Phone Skope, you'll be able to enjoy clear and accurate images and video straight from your binoculars.

The Phone Skope offers a complete digiscoping kit that comes with everything you need to use your spotting scope. It is ideal for capturing high-quality pictures and videos while birding, wildlife watching, hunting, and stargazing. You can also use it for microbiology and property surveillance.

In conclusion, the Phone Skope Complete Digiscoping Kit is an excellent investment for anyone looking to enhance their wildlife viewing, bird watching, or stargazing experience. With its superior features, ease of use, and compatibility with a range of devices, it is the perfect tool for capturing high-quality pictures and videos straight from your binoculars. Proudly made in the USA, this product is a must-have for any nature enthusiast or wildlife photographer.

7. Universal Smartphone Adapter Mount For Monoculars, Binoculars, And Spotting Scopes With Stretchable Clip For All Brands Of Phones.

The SOLOMARK Universal Upgrade Cell Phone Adapter Mount is a high-quality device designed to make it easier for users to capture and share images and videos of the world around them. Whether you're interested in nature, astronomy, or simply want to take great photos and videos with your smartphone, this adapter mount is the perfect tool for you.

One of the key features of this adapter mount is its versatility. It is suitable for use with a wide range of optical devices, including monoculars, binoculars, spotting scopes, and telescopes. Additionally, it can accommodate almost all brands of smartphones on the market, with or without a case, making it a great choice for users with different types of phones.

The adapter mount is designed to fit optics with an eyepiece outer diameter of 1.34"-2.44" (34mm-62mm), and smartphones with a width between 2.12"-3.54" (54-90mm). It also features a 10mm light hole that helps to align your phone's camera with the optics of your device, and shields stray light to improve image contrast.

The main materials used in the construction of this adapter mount are high-strength plastic and updated metal, which ensure durability and long-lasting use. The adapter mount has three adjustable parts that can be rotated to tightly clamp the object, and a large knob that allows for quick alignment of the smartphone adapter with the camera and optics in just a few seconds.

With the SOLOMARK Universal Upgrade Cell Phone Adapter Mount, users can easily capture and share their experiences with others. It is perfect for taking photos and videos of the moon and planets, as well as natural scenery. Whether you are looking to share your images and videos with family, friends, or on social media, this adapter mount makes it easy.

While using the adapter mount, it is important to take precautions to ensure that your phone is safe and secure. Users should take their time when assembling their phone and taking photos, and make sure that the phone is tightly secured. If you encounter any problems while using the adapter mount, the manufacturer is always available to provide assistance and support.

In summary, the SOLOMARK Universal Upgrade Cell Phone Adapter Mount is a versatile, durable, and high-quality device that makes it easy for users to capture and share their experiences. Whether you are an avid nature enthusiast, an astronomy buff, or simply looking to take great photos and videos with your smartphone, this adapter mount is a great choice.

8. Kowa Te-80xw 40x Extreme Wide Angle Eyepiece For 99mm Prominar Spotting Scopes

The Kowa TE-80XW 40x Extreme Wide Angle Eyepiece is a versatile accessory compatible with the Kowa TSN-99 Prominar and TSN-880/770 Prominar pure fluorite crystal spotting scopes (each sold separately). With a magnification of up to 40x and a field of view of 37m at a 1000m distance, the TE-80XW allows users to immerse themselves in the scene and find subjects quicker with a wider view of their surroundings.

The Kowa TE-80XW is also fully protected, with 100% waterproof and sealed construction to protect against the elements. This makes it a reliable and durable option for use in even the harshest of environments. Additionally, Kowa’s unique KR coating is applied to the lens, providing enhanced protection against dirt, moisture, and dust.

The Kowa TE-80XW is designed for optimum viewing with the human eye, as well as digital cameras and smartphones for digiscoping. This makes it a versatile accessory for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers alike. With its extreme wide angle and high magnification capabilities, users can capture stunning images and videos of their subjects.

In summary, the Kowa TE-80XW 40x Extreme Wide Angle Eyepiece is a versatile and durable accessory that can enhance the viewing and digiscoping capabilities of Kowa TSN-99 Prominar and TSN-880/770 Prominar pure fluorite crystal spotting scopes. Its extreme wide angle and high magnification capabilities, combined with its waterproof and sealed construction and KR coating, make it a reliable and versatile option for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

9. Kowa Tsn-773 Xd Spotting Scope Kit With 25-60x Eyepiece And Tripod.

The Kowa 77mm Prominar TSN-773 XD Lens Spotting Scope (Angled) w/ 25-60x Wide Angle Eyepiece & Tripod Kit is a high-performance spotting scope designed for outdoor enthusiasts and birdwatchers. It comes with a range of features that make it easy to use and deliver excellent image clarity.

The scope features a waterproof housing that is rated to JIS protection class 7 and is filled with dry nitrogen gas to prevent the lens from fogging. This ensures that you can use the scope in a variety of weather conditions without any issues.

The Prominar model uses an XD objective lens with low dispersion properties to diminish chromatic aberration. This, along with the well-established Kowa focus system, delivers excellent image clarity that is almost on par with the flagship models with fluorite crystal.

The scope also features a dual focus system that includes a quick focus knob for quick adjustments and a fine focus knob for pinpoint accuracy. The quick focus knob can focus from infinity to five meters in just two revolutions, making it easy to adjust on the go. The fine focus knob has smooth movements that are ideal for high magnifications and digiscoping systems.

The Kowa 77mm Prominar TSN-773 XD Lens Spotting Scope also comes with a Kowa TE-11WZ 25-60x Wide Angle Zoom Eyepiece for TSN-880 and TSN-770 Scopes. This eyepiece delivers excellent image clarity and a wide field of view, making it easy to spot birds and other wildlife.

To make it easy to use the scope, the kit also comes with a Manfrotto Compact Light Tripod in black. This tripod is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. It also features a quick-release plate that makes it easy to attach and detach the scope.

In summary, the Kowa 77mm Prominar TSN-773 XD Lens Spotting Scope (Angled) w/ 25-60x Wide Angle Eyepiece & Tripod Kit is a high-performance spotting scope that is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and birdwatchers. It features a range of features that make it easy to use and deliver excellent image clarity, even in challenging weather conditions.

Best Spotting Scope For Digiscoping FAQs

Are there any spotting scopes that are specifically designed for digiscoping?

Yes, there are spotting scopes that are specifically designed for digiscoping. These spotting scopes usually have features that make it easier to attach a camera or smartphone to the eyepiece, such as a camera adapter or a smartphone adapter. They also often have higher magnification and better optical quality to ensure that the images captured are clear and sharp. Some examples of spotting scopes designed for digiscoping include the Swarovski ATX/STX spotting scopes, the Vortex Razor HD spotting scope, and the Kowa TSN-883 spotting scope. Digiscoping has become increasingly popular among bird watchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and amateur photographers as it allows them to capture high-quality images of distant subjects without having to invest in expensive telephoto lenses.

How do you attach a camera to a spotting scope for digiscoping?

To attach a camera to a spotting scope for digiscoping, you will need a few accessories. Firstly, you will require a spotting scope that has a compatible eyepiece with a diameter between 28mm and 45mm. Secondly, you need a camera adapter that fits your camera model and attaches to the spotting scope's eyepiece. The adapter should securely hold the camera in place and align it with the eyepiece. The camera can then be connected to the adapter via a tripod screw or other attachment mechanism.

It is essential to ensure that the camera adapter is compatible with both your camera and spotting scope to achieve the best results. A good quality adapter will have a durable construction and provide a stable connection between the spotting scope and camera. Once you have the camera attached, you can adjust the focus and zoom to capture your desired image. With practice and patience, you can produce stunning digiscoping images and videos.

What are the most important features to consider in a spotting scope for digiscoping?

When choosing a spotting scope for digiscoping, there are several important features to consider. Firstly, the quality of the optics is crucial for producing sharp and clear images. Look for scopes with high-quality lenses and coatings that minimize distortion and glare. Secondly, the magnification range is important, as you will need to be able to zoom in on distant subjects without sacrificing image quality. A spotting scope with a variable zoom eyepiece is ideal for this purpose. Thirdly, the size and weight of the scope will affect its portability and ease of use in the field. Look for models that are lightweight and compact, but still sturdy enough to hold steady when mounted on a tripod. Finally, compatibility with your camera or smartphone is important, so look for scopes with the appropriate mounting options and adapters.

What magnification range is best for digiscoping with a spotting scope?

The magnification range that is best for digiscoping with a spotting scope depends on several factors, such as the distance to the subject, lighting conditions, and the quality of the spotting scope and camera equipment being used. Generally, a magnification range of 20-60x is suitable for most digiscoping applications as it offers a good balance between image quality and zooming capability. However, for long-range photography, a higher magnification range of 80x or more may be required. It is important to note that higher magnifications may also result in reduced image stabilization and increased camera shake, which can negatively affect image quality. Therefore, it is recommended to use a tripod or other stabilizing equipment when using high magnification scopes for digiscoping. Ultimately, the best magnification range for digiscoping will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

Which brands offer the best spotting scopes for digiscoping?

There are several brands that offer top-quality spotting scopes for digiscoping. One of the most renowned brands in this category is Swarovski Optik, which is known for its high-end, premium quality optics. Their digiscoping products are designed to deliver exceptional image quality and clarity, and are compatible with most popular camera brands.

Another brand that is popular among digiscoping enthusiasts is Vortex Optics. Their spotting scopes are known for their durability, ruggedness, and innovative features. They offer a range of digiscoping adapters and accessories that make it easy to attach cameras and capture stunning images.

Leica is another brand that offers excellent digiscoping optics. They are known for their precision and attention to detail, and their spotting scopes are designed to deliver exceptional image quality even in low-light conditions.

Other notable brands that offer high-quality spotting scopes for digiscoping include Nikon, Zeiss, and Kowa. Overall, it's essential to consider your needs and budget while selecting a spotting scope for digiscoping.

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