There's no doubt that Minolta is a big global player when it comes to optical instruments as well as other electronics, business and imaging products. Minolta specializes in more popular products like digital cameras and printers, but its extensive expertise in imaging carries over to its brand in binoculars. Minolta retails under the corporate umbrella of Konica Minolta.

Some binoculars by Minolta

Minolta is pretty good at making affordable binoculars with good quality. For example, take the Minolta Activa WP-FP (8X40) binoculars. You can still find the latest model of these around $100. These offer strong image clarity and brightness. These are also waterproof, with top of the line BaK-4 prisms and relative light weight. When first produced, they were rated 2 nd in their category by Consumer Reports, behind a pair of binoculars that were far more expensive. Most binoculars that were rated similarly were in the $500 to $600 range.

Minolta Ultra Compact UC III 8x18 compact binoculars are light on the pocket book and light in your pockets. They feature a uniquely square design that might grab the attention of others around you. As a compact, though, they are perfect for sporting events and similar situations, and they can be found online for less than $100. They're also perfectly easy to hold - at a little over 4 ounces.

Minolta also makes larger binoculars in a higher price range. The Minolta Activa 10x42 is listed at $376 but can be found online for much less. These are fine for sports or any similar activity. These are actually the top end of Minolta in terms of price range.

Minolta is all about making quality accessible. Minolta binoculars are routinely raved about by consumers and reviewers alike.

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