Porro Prism vs Roof Prism – Which One Is Better?

Porro prism vs roof prism binocular

Few Words About Prism

This article is all about the prism type in depth: Porro Prism vs roof prism. Prism, Prism is an optical instrument with a flat, polished base that refracts the light. It is a transparent element. At least one base should be angled. The most common shape of the prism is triangular with a triangular base. Angles absorb the light and disperse the light then the color spectrum is created. So for correcting the image orientation, we use prisms. 

What prisms do? Prism increases the light path in optics from the objective lens to the eyepiece, as well as increases the magnification without expanding the binocular cylinder length. Most of the optics are made of BAK-4 prisms. .If you are planning to buy a binocular then there is a great pair of binocular with a buying guide. So that you can get the knowledge of which one is best for you. Let’s go through prism types.

Prism Types

There are two types of prism that we get in binocular.

1. Porro Prism

2. Roof Prism

Porro Prism vs Roof Prism ​

Porro Prism

Porro prism vs roof prism structure

Porro prism includes two right-angled prisms that are facing each other. The objective lens tube of Porro prism is offset from the eyepiece. That is why we called it porro prism. Porro prism is made to increase the light in its path and increase the magnification so that we can get a clear, bright image. Porro prism binoculars are bigger and heavier in size than roof prism but it is very much popular in traditional days still In the modern era it is equally necessary. These binoculars are less durable because of these factors such as bulkier and wider in size as well as very difficult to find waterproof quality in these binoculars.

Advantages

1. The most extensive field of view

2. Improve picture quality

3. Better depth recognition

Disadvantages

1. Heavy and Bigger

2. Difficult to find waterproof quality

3. Less durability

Roof Prism

Porro prism vs roof prism structure

Roof prism is directly in line with the eyepiece. Roof prism also has two types  Abbe-Koenig and Schmidt-Pechan. Abbe-Koenig includes two connected prisms of V-shape and extends the light. Schmidt-pechan also includes two prisms that are separated by a slight air gap. It travels the longer light path than abbe-Koenig prism and helps to improve brightness and light absorbance. It is more compact than an abbe-Koenig prism. Roof prisms are slimmer and compact design binocular. Roof prism binocular manufacturing is costlier so it is available at a high price in the market today.

Advantages

1. More streamlined design

2. More compact

3. Waterproof quality

4. More Lightweight

5. More durable

6. Improve magnification strength

7. Easy to hold Binocular

 

Disadvantages

1. More Expensive

2. Less extensive field of view

3. less clarity

The budget difference of Porro prism vs Roof Prism Binocular

Porro prisms are available in the market under $100. In this budget, you can find an average porro prism binocular and if you want a good pair of binocular you can find under $100 to $200. 

Roof prisms as we know roof prisms are lightweight and easy to hold. It is available in the market at a higher price. If you want a good pair of binoculars with superior picture quality then it comes under $200 to $1000.

Final Verdict

Porro prisms are a great option for bird watching and hunting in less budget. It helps you to get a wider field of view with great image quality. As per experts. If you are planning to explore the beauty in forests or for nearer objects porro prism is a better option for you. 

If you are planning for a longer range of wildlife or you are an astronomy lover then you have a requirement of better magnification then you should choose a roof prism binocular. Both of the prisms have their own quality. 

One mantra of all the problems that You have to just find out your needs, your preference after that you can decide which one is better for you. So select the best binocular which comes under your budget, needs, and preferences. I hope you got a better idea of porro prism vs roof prism.

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