Nikon's new ecobins binoculars feature eco-friendly glass which is lead and arsenic free, non-chloride rubber eye cups, a natural fiber carrying case and strap, no printed materials inside the box and tree-free packaging. Naturally with all these green friendly features these binoculars were something I was interested in checking out.
Available in 10x25 magnification the ecobins are compact, rugged, waterproof and fogproof. Nikon's premium optics include aspherical eyepiece lenses that provide distortion-free viewing, internal blackening to minimize light loss inside binocular tubes and multi-coated lenses that offer maximum brightness, contrast and true color.
The included carrying case and strap are constructed from environmentally-minded Lenzing Tencel fiber that is fully biodegradable. Derived from the wood pulp of sustainable eucalyptus forests, Tencel fiber utilizes a revolutionary manufacturing process with minimal waste.The eco-friendly features of this product carry all the way through to the manner it is packaged. Ecobins packaging is constructed from eighty-five percent post-consumer waste and is printed on recyclable FiberStone paper. This recyclable paper is completely tree-free and made from limestone collected as waste material from existing quarries for the building and construction industry. Production of this product uses no water or bleaching chemicals and releases zero pollution into the air according to the company.
Additionally, to minimize resources used to produce ecobins the instruction manual, product registration card and information regarding Nikon’s 25-year warranty are available online at and were not included in the packaging as printed inserts.
Like other 10x25 binoculars the Ecobins aren't ideally suited for scanning and spotting things like birds due to their limited field of view. However their 10x magnification and excellent quality optics help make up for that especially when you've located a target - for instance a perched raptor.
The strength of the Ecobins comes in their portability and light weight - they are an excellent general purpose binocular that allow you good looks at things once spotted. Their size and weight are significant pluses especially when trying to travel light or for casual use when a more substantial binocular may be overkill.
Optically the Ecobins are strong. As expected they provide the sharp crisp image Nikon is known for. They perform best during the day when the light is strong. At dusk or under difficult light conditions their performance isn't optimal - that is due to their smaller field of view which doesn't let as much light in.
I would say the Ecobins would be a great choice for backpackers and hikers who want to view wildlife and look from scenic vistas along the trail. They would also be a great choice for a general purpose all around binocular for all kinds of recreational activities.
According to a Nikon spokeswoman, the largest retailer for Ecobins is REI but they can also be found online with several different retailers. The MSRP is $169.99
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Looks like a great product. I love the color. Sachuest Point NWR is a great spot, as is the nearby Norman Bird Sanctuary.
Posted by: Paul | January 19, 2010 at 07:12 AM
great review! seems you have keen interest and knowledge of Binoculars... please share some updates on the new 2010 Binoculars as well.. regards
- Sara
Posted by: Stabilized Binoculars | June 17, 2010 at 07:27 AM
Why not package your whole line green. The cynic in me thinks this is more a marketing ploy with this model binoculars then any real concern for the environment.
Posted by: EL | July 24, 2010 at 12:44 PM
Great product. We need more eco-friendly products in the photography and outdoors arena.
Posted by: Mo | September 19, 2010 at 07:03 PM
The Ecobins sound like a really great product, although probably a bit out of my price range. I'm thinking there must be other, less expensive binoculars on the market that would do the job. I'm inclined to agree wit EL that this sounds like slick marketing.
Posted by: compact zoom binoculars | January 16, 2011 at 07:01 PM
Can you do a review on Nikon D7000?
Posted by: Nikon D7000 Price | February 11, 2011 at 03:11 AM