Why Interpupillary Distance (IPD) Matters When Choosing Binoculars

When you’re choosing a new pair of binoculars, one detail that often gets overlooked is Interpupillary Distance, or IPD for short. It might sound a bit technical, but getting this measurement right can be the difference between a clear, comfortable view and a distorted one that leaves you frustrated or even headachy.

In our recent video from the “Getting the Best Out of Your Binoculars” series, I spoke about IPD and why it matters more than most people realise.

What Is IPD and Why Should You Care?

IPD refers to the distance between the centres of your pupils. Everyone’s is slightly different, and if your binoculars don’t match that distance properly, the image you see through them will suffer. Instead of one crisp, circular view, you might see two overlapping circles or feel like you are struggling to merge the images together. A commonly encountered issue is the appearance of black ‘kidney-bean’ like shapes partially obscuring the image. If this is you, this article will greatly assist.

This misalignment can cause eye strain and discomfort, especially over longer viewing sessions. So if you’ve ever looked through a pair of binoculars and thought something didn’t feel quite right, it could well have been down to incorrect IPD adjustment.

Adjusting for the Right Fit

Most binoculars allow you to adjust the eyepieces by simply folding them inwards or outwards until you see a single, circular image. This part is key. Take your time and adjust slowly. When the view clicks into place, you will know it.

I always recommend doing this with a real object in the distance, preferably outdoors. It gives you a better feel for how your eyes naturally settle when the fit is correct.

Why It’s Worth Trying Before You Buy

The truth is, face shapes vary just as much as eye distances. If you have a narrower face or you are buying binoculars for a younger member of the family, not all models will fit perfectly. This is where hands-on experience matters.

For example, the Opticron 8x32 Traveller is a brilliant choice for people with a smaller IPD. It adjusts from as narrow as 51 mm and goes up to 70 mm, so it suits a broad range of users. It is lightweight, easy to carry, and ideal for travel or family use.

You can explore our Opticron range here, or better still, come into the shop and give a few models a try. Binoculars are personal. The right feel, the right fit, and the right view all come together best when you can get hands-on.

Who Benefits from a Good IPD Fit?

• Families: A well-fitted pair of binoculars can be shared among different users, from adults to children, making them more versatile.

• Travellers: Lightweight binoculars with a wide IPD range are ideal for exploring new places in comfort.

• Birdwatchers and hikers: Long sessions outdoors call for gear that doesn’t cause eye fatigue. Correct IPD helps you stay focused and relaxed.

Final Thoughts

Understanding your Interpupillary Distance might not sound exciting at first, but once you experience the difference it makes, you will never go back. We see it all the time in store. A customer picks up a pair of binoculars, adjusts the eyepieces, and suddenly everything falls into place. That is when we know they have found the right fit.

So if you’re in the market for a new pair, don’t just look at specs. Come in, try a few models, and let us help you find something that truly works for your eyes. It is one of those small things that makes a big difference.

You can visit us in Torquay to view in person or explore the full binocular range online, or check out more advice on our optics blog.

Watch the Youtube video on this subject (IPD) here: