I have wondered about this matter long time. Why are compact binos mostoften 8-10x? Generally a 10x50 provides at least the same stable image as a typhical 8x20, likely better. Because of the light weight and small format the image can't be as stable as with larger binoculars. Why the manufacturers don't produce 6x20 models instead? I know that Zeiss has earlier had this configuration.
The advantages with a 6x20 instead of a 8x20 (and 10x25) would be:
*larger FOV
*78% brighter image
*more stable image
*longer eye relief
In many cases the user can hardly make use of the larger image scale with compacts, and a lower powered alternative would be a better choice. I think!
Patric
I've been looking for 6x25 compact binos but there are no such. I had the same problem: 8x20 is a very dark option even if they are Fully MC and has Phase Coated prism and all that stuff. I could use 6x25 all the time not only during bright and sunny day as I can with 10x25.
I think it is that because those compact binoculars are not for people using binoculars at all. It is just a toy for someone that does not understand what 10 and 25 means. He may have heard that 10x means magnification so he wouldn't have taken 6x25 as they had to be worse. And that's why you can buy such useless thing as 12x25 or 10x21 (dark as hell and FOV around 4 deg - madness!)
I have found one very strange and funny Minox 6x20, but never tried them.
kmiernik,
Yes, a 6x25 would also be a great configuration. Actually I have had a Zeiss Classic monocular 6x20, and would today like to have the binocular version of this discontinued model. With the eyecups downfolded the eye relief was more than adequate to see the entire FOV with eyeglasses on and superior to every today existing 8x20-10x25 (though apparant FOV was only 41 deg). Despite the narrow AFOV the TFOV was nearly 7 deg, in comparison to my current Minolta Activa 8x25 D WP XL with 5,5 deg. The 3,3 mm exit pupil provided significantly brighter and clearer images than the typhical 8x20 and 10x25 models, which actually maked the 6x20 somewhat useable even at dawn and dusk. A 6x25 of the same size and shape as a 8 and 10x25 would really be a comfortable and useful binocular. You are completely right about those stupid 10x21 and 12x25 models, who mostly attract unexperienced persons!
Patric