Thread: Swarovski slc/el bino

Originally Posted by Frodo

The biggest difference between them is that the EL and SLC are based on two different optical designs, and you may have a preference for one over the other.

The EL incorporates field flattening technology which gives the image a flat/uniform appearance across its entire field. The image appears sharp to the very edges. The benefit of this is that the entire field of view can be utilized, because you can use eye movement alone to 'roam' around the image. The two major drawbacks to this design is that it's not 100% true to life (the world as we see it through our eyes isn't 'dead flat'), and the field flattening can also induce a 'fish bowl/globe' effect when panning. Some people experience it, some don't.

The SLC is a more traditional design, with a big sweet spot in the middle of the image, with the sharpness gradually falling off towards the edges. They're a smidge brighter than the EL's due to the lack of field flattening lenses, and the overall image is more three dimensional/stereosopic than the EL's.

The EL is also more feature rich, which partly contributes to its higher price. I.e an 'open bridge' design (easier to hold one handed); "field pro" strap attachment system (convenience); and close focus (the 8.5x42 model offers this). Because of these refinments, many find the EL to be more user friendly.

The SLC is simpler in it's construction/design which no doubt contributes to its lower price. But many prefer it over the EL, and vice versa.

Whether you need/want the extra features of the EL, or would be happier saving some $$ and going with the more traditional design of the SLC, is up to you.

@Frodo
Mate - you should get a job as a reviewer of Optics and prob everything else marketed around outdoor field use