Optisan Optics is making its name known in birdwatching, especially in Southeast Asia. It’s easy to see why since their birding optics are of high quality yet still affordable for the average birder. Optisan Optics has a selection of birding gear available, ranging from compact binoculars to spotting scopes. The latest product to join their catalogue is the Optisan EVR II ED binoculars.
Optisan EVR II ED Binoculars
During the 13th Asian Bird Fair held in the Philippines recently, Optisan Optics officially unveiled their newest binoculars. The EVR II series is an evolution of their older EVR models, and they are smaller, lighter, and more portable, yet still deliver the same excellent optical performance the EVR series is known for.
Available models:
Key features common to both the 8x and 10x models:
(All data from the Optisan official product page)
- Compact and lightweight design
- 34 mm objective lens diameter
- Wide viewing angles
- 93% total light transmission
- ED glass, fully multi-coated
- Minimum close focusing distance of 2 m
- Prism: Bak4 w/Phase coating+Dielectric coating
- IPX7 rated waterproofing
- Fog-proof, nitrogen purged.
- Comes with a pre-installed neckstrap
What’s different vs the previous EVR models?
- Significantly more compact and lighter
- Magnesium aluminium alloy on the newer EVR II (vs aluminium alloy)
- 34 mm objective lens diameters (vs 42 mm on the older models)
- Wider viewing angles
- 8.3 degrees (EVR II) vs 7.5 degrees (EVR), for the 8x models
- 6.7 degrees (EVR II) vs 6.2 degrees (EVR), for the 10x models
- The diopter adjustment ring is shifted from a central position (on the EVR) to the right barrel (on the EVR II).
- A more stylish design with black accents and a more prominent Optisan logo
How much is it?
In Malaysia, the RRP for both the 8×34 and 10×34 models is MYR 2250
When is it available in Malaysia, and how to order?
Pre-orders are available now, with estimated delivery in late February 2025 at the earliest. For enquiries or pre-order, contact:
- Sabah Birdwatchers Association (SBWA) – for those in Malaysian Borneo (Sabah, Sarawak & Labuan)
- Nature Educational Society (NEST) – for those in West Malaysia
Alternatively, you can also buy it online directly from the Optisan website.
Last, but not least…..
At the recent 13th Asian Bird Fair, Birdwatching Asia was given a copy of the EVR II ED 10×34 binoculars to use and review. Since then, we have already put these binos through the paces. We’ve tested these binoculars on our trips to the Andaman Islands and Danum Valley, utilising them in several different environments, as well as various lighting and weather conditions.
Suffice it to say that we are big fans of this model. Look out for our full review of the EVR II ED 10×34 binoculars in the coming months!
Conclusion
The Optisan EVR II ED certainly looks like a positive development of their previous EVR models, with a feature set aimed at advanced/enthusiast birders. At the same time, the price point is still within reach for most. The smaller form factor is a plus, as the trend nowadays seems to favour more diminutive and compact designs.
In summary, the Optisan EVR II ED binoculars definitely look like a worthy addition to Optisan’s already excellent product lineup.
