MAGVIEW Digiscoping Adapters for Spotting Scopes and Binoculars

MAGVIEW digiscoping adapters for spotting scopes and binoculars

MAGVIEW digiscoping adapters let you use your phone to photograph and film what you see through a spotting scope or binoculars. The system combines an adapter fitted to the eyepiece with a plate for your phone. Once set up, you can attach the phone to capture an image, then remove it and continue looking through the optic.

If you use a spotting scope, start with the MAGVIEW S1. It is designed for eyepieces with an outer diameter of 51–60 mm. For binoculars, choose between the MAGVIEW B1 and MAGVIEW B1 XL according to your eyecup measurement.

MAGVIEW S1: phone adapter for spotting scopes

The MAGVIEW S1 connects a phone to a spotting scope with an eyepiece measuring 51–60 mm across its outside diameter. It lets you use the scope’s magnification to capture photos and videos of wildlife, birds, landscapes and other distant subjects.

It is useful when stalking, watching wildlife or recording a sighting to review or share later. Once you have taken the photo or video, remove your phone to continue observing through the eyepiece.

Check the fit before buying: measure the outside of the eyepiece at the point where the S1 will be fitted. A large spotting scope can still have an eyepiece that is too narrow for this adapter.

View the MAGVIEW S1 spotting scope adapter

Which MAGVIEW adapter do you need?

Choose by optic type and outer eyepiece diameter. These are the three adapters in this collection:

The size ranges do not overlap. If your measurement falls outside these ranges or close to an endpoint, measure again and check the shape of the eyecup before ordering.

MAGVIEW B1: take photos through your binoculars

The MAGVIEW B1 is a phone adapter for binoculars with an outer eyepiece diameter of 38.5–43 mm. It fits to one eyepiece so you can position your phone camera over the image you are viewing.

It is a practical option for documenting a sighting when you are carrying binoculars but not a spotting scope. Record wildlife during a stalk, photograph birds or share a view with someone else.

View the MAGVIEW B1 binocular adapter

MAGVIEW B1 XL: for wider binocular eyecups

The MAGVIEW B1 XL works in the same way as the B1 but is designed for binocular eyepieces with an outer diameter of 44–48 mm. If your eyecup exceeds the B1 size range, check whether it falls within the B1 XL range.

Do not choose the XL version based on the overall size of your binoculars. Two 10x42 models can have different eyecup diameters. Measure the eyepiece itself.

View the MAGVIEW B1 XL

How does MAGVIEW digiscoping work?

Digiscoping means placing a phone camera over the eyepiece of an optic to capture the image seen through it. With MAGVIEW, an adapter fits to the spotting scope or binocular eyepiece. A plate attached to your phone or a suitable case allows the phone to connect magnetically to the adapter.

When you first set up the system, take time to align the phone camera with the eyepiece. You can then prepare your equipment before heading out and attach the phone when you want to record. Image quality depends on the optic, phone camera, available light, focus and stability.

MAGVIEW phone plates for additional phones or cases

If several people share an adapter, you change phones or you want a separate case for field use, the MAGVIEW three-pack of phone plates lets you prepare additional devices or cases.

Before attaching a plate, identify which phone camera you will use and check that you can position it over the eyepiece. The mounting surface must allow the plate to adhere securely; a very soft, rough or heavily textured case can make this difficult.

If you regularly use wireless charging, also see the MAGVIEW plate listed for wireless charging. Check the product information against your phone, case and charger before choosing it.

How to measure your eyepiece and choose the right model

1. Identify your optic: S1 is for spotting scopes; B1 and B1 XL are for binoculars.
2. Find the mounting point: measure the outside of the eyepiece or eyecup where the adapter will sit.
3. Use calipers: measure across the outside diameter in millimetres.
4. Compare the size: S1, 51–60 mm; B1, 38.5–43 mm; B1 XL, 44–48 mm.
5. Check the eyecup shape: as well as the diameter, the mounting area must allow the adapter to fit properly.

Numbers such as 8x42 or 10x42 describe binocular magnification and objective lens diameter. They do not state the outside diameter of the eyepieces.

Tips for better digiscoping photos and videos

• Focus the optic first: check that the image looks sharp when viewing directly through the spotting scope or binoculars.
• Centre the phone camera: dark edges or a cropped image often mean the camera and eyepiece are misaligned.
• Check which phone lens is active: some smartphones switch cameras automatically or enable macro mode.
• Keep the setup steady: at higher magnification, a spotting scope tripod or firm support for your binoculars reduces visible shake.
• Practise before going out: test the phone position and camera settings before you need to capture a fleeting subject.

Heavy digital zoom cannot make up for poor focus or an unsteady image.

MAGVIEW for stalking, birdwatching and wildlife observation

When stalking, you can use a spotting scope to observe an animal at a distance and save a photo for later review. With binoculars and a correctly sized B1 adapter, you can also document sightings while carrying a lighter setup.

MAGVIEW is useful for birdwatching and wildlife observation, allowing you to save and share what you see through your optic. If you are putting together an observation kit, explore our spotting scopes and binoculars.

Frequently asked questions about MAGVIEW adapters

Which MAGVIEW adapter do I need for a spotting scope?

For a spotting scope eyepiece with an outer diameter of 51–60 mm, check the MAGVIEW S1. Measure where the adapter will fit, rather than the large objective lens at the front of the scope.

What is the difference between the MAGVIEW B1 and B1 XL?

Both are designed for binoculars. The B1 fits an outer eyepiece diameter of 38.5–43 mm; the B1 XL fits 44–48 mm.

Is a phone plate included with the adapter?

Check the contents listed on the product page for the model you choose. The MAGVIEW three-pack of plates lets you prepare additional phones or cases.

Can I use my usual phone case?

You can use a case if its surface lets you attach the plate securely and align the camera with the eyepiece. Very soft, rough or heavily textured cases may affect adhesion.

Will a MAGVIEW plate work with wireless charging?

That depends on the specific plate and your phone, case and charger. If you use wireless charging, check the product page for the plate listed for this purpose before buying.

Can I fit these adapters to a rifle scope?

The S1, B1 and B1 XL products in this collection are presented for spotting scopes and binoculars. Do not choose one for a rifle scope solely because its eyepiece appears to have a matching outer diameter.

Buy MAGVIEW adapters at Carbin

Measure the outside diameter of your eyepiece first. For a spotting scope, see the MAGVIEW S1. For binoculars, compare the B1 and B1 XL. Add extra phone plates if you want to set up more devices or cases.

Choose the adapter that fits your eyepiece and set up your phone before heading out, so you are ready to capture your next sighting.