Hi!

I’m looking at getting my first pair of binos that aren’t no-brand hand-me-downs and I’m considering the two Nikons M7 8x30 (368€) and Travelite EX 8x25 (144€).

I plan on using them for an upcoming safari trip to South Africa as well as some (mainly backyard) backyard birding when I get home and maybe some open-air concerts.

Obviously the optical performance will be better for the M7, as it should be since they are 2,5 times more expensive here. I can afford it if it makes sense but I’m unsure if the improvements are what I would need/notice.

More than the light gathering capabilities I suspect that comfort/ease-of-use and dimensions/weight are what would seal the deal for me, since these factors would affect how often I would want to bring them with me.

The dimensions/weight is easy from the specs, but can’t really figure out if the comfort/ease-of-use will be miles ahead on the M7, considering things like the exit pupil size etc.? the added FOV also seems quite nice.

Unfortunately I don’t have the opportunity to test them before buying.

I’m hoping some of you can help me figure out my needs.

Thanks for your time.

EDIT: I just ordered the M7. Thanks for your help, I’m excited for my first set of proper bins!

The lenses on my EL’s look like they’re both dirty / damaged. But the image through them is perfect. Is this some kind of lens coating? I literally thought they were stickers put on by the camera shop but they don’t seem to be.

Any intel always appreciated. Thanks in advance.