Swarovski CL Companion compact binocular review

Companion by name, companion by nature, as the updated Swarovski CL Companion binoculars are a breath of fresh air that appeal to a younger, wider audience and are designed to go anywhere with you. The optics are excellent, as we've come to expect from Swarovski, and the fun new design is sleek and modern, although it seems to divide user opinion somewhat.

Compact, lightweight package — easy to hold for long sessions

Expensive considering Swarovski is going for a younger market

OK in the dark, but not the best option for low-light observing

Why you can trust Live Science Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best ones for you. Find out more about how we test.

The CL Companion is Swarovski's dedicated compact binocular , originally introduced 15 years ago, but has now been redesigned in 2026 to appeal to a wider, younger audience. RSPB research found an increase of around 1,000% in birdwatching among Gen Z in the UK since 2018, with a similar boom now happening in the US.

The CL Companion sits between the pocket-size CL Pocket and full-size EL and NL ranges, making it the perfect mid-range model that combines portability with excellent optical prowess.

The Companion is a grab-and-go, "take it anywhere and everywhere" binocular that is perfect for many different activities, whether that's spotting birds, scoping out your hiking trail or sweeping across the starry sky at night.