The job of a
compact binocular is to be there when you need and not be in the way when you don't. I know all the optical and performance negatives of
compact binoculars, but, darn, my premium compacts do this job so well, I sometimes wonder if I really need a big binocular, other than for my astronomy. This is somewhat against the trend for
birders, though many birders I know are dropping down in size to a 32mm binocular - a move I definitely recommend. Not many birders, though, are ready or willing to go all compact binocular and I understand this. Compact binoculars are not for everyone, but they do work great for an old gal who spends more time on a bicycle than some folks spend in a car.