10 Best Zoom Binoculars: Top Picks for Enhanced Viewing

Outdoor activities like hunting, stargazing, or seeing animals usually require you to have binoculars. Binoculars having appropriate magnification is of crucial importance. While searching for the best zoom binoculars, price is a significant area. The binoculars that we have presented in this list range from expensive to very affordable. Binoculars used for a professional purpose are a little pricey compared to general binoculars.

Exploring these infinite numbers of binoculars can often be a bit overwhelming. Putting the right amount of effort into researching for your binoculars is very important. Luckily we have got you covered.

Key Highlights

  • Exceptional zoom capabilities for detailed long-distance observation.
  • Advanced optics ensuring clear and sharp image quality.
  • Sturdy construction and ergonomic design for comfortable use.
  • Versatile features catering to various outdoor activities

Factors to Consider While Choosing the Best Zoom Binoculars

We have spent hours researching various binoculars. Multiple factors were kept into consideration while conducting this research. Let us discuss them in detail. 

  • Magnification: The zooming capacity of your binoculars is of crucial importance. Many companies are now making binoculars targeting magnification. 
  • Price: The binoculars need to provide value, and the overall cost needs to be justified.
  • Quality: Many binoculars often break down, so this component is essential. 
  • Features: Binoculars these days come with many more features than just magnification—many features like being waterproof, tripod compatibility, dust resistant, lens quality, etc. are identified during our research. 
  • Weight: We have to carry the binoculars most of the time; this point is critical 
  • Durability: Binoculars often tend to break down; that’s why durability is essential. 
  • Image quality: Despite having high magnification, many binoculars don’t have a good image quality.

10 Best Zoom Binoculars

Our team has made sure to identify the best zoom binoculars that rank high in all these components. Please note that we have created this list keeping in mind both professional and general users. Whatever your use is, we assure you that after going through this article just once, you will not have to be worried about the hundreds of binoculars being available on the internet.

Regardless of your profession, we are sure that the perfect binoculars for you are in this article. Past users of these products have nothing but good things to say about these products. We can thoroughly endorse these products due to their credibility—multiple products in this list score high in various domains. Let us now examine these binoculars.

  • Nikon ACULON A211 -10-22 x 50 8252 Binocular
  • Bushnell Legacy WP
  • BARSKA Gladiator Binocular with Ruby
  • Olympus 8-16X40 Zoom DPS
  • Celestron UpClose
  • Celestron SkyMaster 15-35×70
  • Nikon 7496 Eagleview Zoom 8-24 X 25mm Binoculars
  • Bushnell Engage Binoculars, Matte Black
  • SoB Super Military
  • Celestron – SkyMaster 20X80 Astro Binoculars

1. Nikon 8252 Aculon A211 Zoom Binoculars

  • Aculon A211 10 22x50 zoom binoculars are designed to be as light as possible along with excellent ergonomics
  • Easy to reach fingertip zoom control knob allows for quick and easy adjustment of the binoculars magnification from 10 up to 22 power. Interpapillary distance adjustment (millimeter) - 56-72
  • Turn and slide rubber eyecups allow for comfortable viewing during extended periods of use; Minimum focus distance 49.2 feet / 15 meter
  • Multicoated eco glass lenses deliver a bright and clear image in most lighting conditions; Field of view 1000 meter (meter/feet) 66/199; Apparent field of view (°) 36.7; Real field of view (°) 3.8
  • A durable rubber armored coating ensures a non slip grip, even in wet conditions; Exit pupil is 2.3 - 5 millimeter

Last update on April 24, 2024 / Affiliate links / All Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Nikon  10-22×50  8252 Aculan is one of the best zoom binoculars on the internet. It comes with multi-coated lenses prepared from specially designed lead, Bak4 prism, and an Eco glass. The unique Eco glasses are manufactured from lead and arsenic, making the binoculars much more sustainable.

The rubber-armored coating is exceptionally durable. Previous owners have made sure to give these binoculars a 5-star review.   These components in the binoculars help in capturing high-quality images. The binoculars come at a very affordable price, and the magnification is adjustable from 10-22. The multi-click rubber eyecups are adjustable.  

The product can be easily placed on a tripod and weighs around 3.0 pounds. Any professional that requires a device that specializes in magnification should opt for this device. The binoculars rubber-armored fitting is optimal for gripping it. The external coating also prevents slipping.

High-quality images and unique design make the  Aculon A211 an ideal fit for outdoor sports and long-range glassing. Compared to other binoculars, these binoculars’ weight is lighter, making it easy to carry it. All these features mentioned easily make these binoculars an excellent option while considering the best zoom binoculars. Let us discuss the various pros and cons of these binoculars. 

Pros

  • Nikon’s reputation for quality is evident in the Aculon A211, featuring a durable and rugged design that withstands outdoor use.
  • The Aculon A211 offers a versatile zoom feature, allowing users to adjust magnification levels for various viewing needs.
  • The Aculon A211 offers a versatile zoom feature, allowing users to adjust magnification levels for various viewing needs.

Cons

  • The design, while robust, may be considered slightly bulky for users prioritizing ultra-portability.
  • Unlike some premium models, these binoculars lack waterproofing, limiting their suitability for wet or rainy environments.
  • Some users may find the fixed eyecups less adjustable than those of more advanced binoculars, affecting overall comfort for eyeglass wearers.

2. Bushnell Legacy WP Zoom Binoculars

A very high-quality product that is very versatile in its use is the Bushnell Legacy WP Zoom Binocular. The device has 42mm lenses. Different models are available for these binoculars. Buyers also have the option to select from a variety of models according to their specifications. These binoculars are very lightweight. If you are into outdoor activities, these binoculars are the very right choice for you. They are also completely waterproof, fog proof, and even shockproof. Some devices may, despite coming with a limited lifetime guarantee. 

The bigger full-size objectives lens makes it ideal for working in low light. These binoculars can be used for general as well as in the wild. The binoculars come with a rubber-coated grip to make sure it doesn’t slip. Some models also come with a limited lifetime warranty making it a good fit for the best zoom binoculars. These binoculars might seem a little heavier than usual, but you can easily mount them.

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They provide great magnifications that are going to help you have access to a wide range of views. The materials used in these binoculars are top end. These binoculars, when compared to its competitors, provides much more value. These binoculars have a camera and photo compatibility. The bushel brand name makes it a very credible product. 

Pros

  • The binoculars boast a rugged and durable construction, making them suitable for outdoor adventures and providing longevity.
  • The Legacy WP Zoom binoculars feature a waterproof and fogproof design, ensuring reliable performance in various weather conditions.
  • The Legacy WP Zoom binoculars feature a waterproof and fogproof design, ensuring reliable performance in various weather conditions.

Cons

  • Some users may find the binoculars slightly bulkier, impacting portability for extended outdoor activities.
  • Some users may find the binoculars slightly bulkier, impacting portability for extended outdoor activities.
  • While suitable for general low-light conditions, the binoculars may not excel in extremely low-light environments.

3. Olympus 8-16X40 Zoom DPS I Binoculars

  • Maximum image brightness
  • Large centre focus knob for fast and easy focusing
  • Sure grip rubber coating
  • The binoculars measure 5.8 x 18.2 x 15.2 cm and weight 0.79 kg
  • Zoom capability of 8 ‑ 16x
  • Anti-reflective lens coating for better image brightness
  • Large center focus knob for fast, easy focusing
  • Built-in dioptric correction adjusts to individual eyesight
  • Comfortable ergonomic grips

Last update on April 24, 2024 / Affiliate links / All Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

These particular binoculars are the most versatile piece of equipment you will ever possess. Perfect for both indoor as well as outdoor activities. The binoculars perform well in low light conditions. The zoom lens will give you access to your surroundings before you zoom in a specific area. The binoculars are equipped with an anti-reflective lens to provide images with more brightness.

Due to these features, despite zooming in 16x, the image quality will remain the same. The contrast levels that these binoculars produce are one of the best in its class. You may also adjust the views for your eyes using the built-in dioptric correction.

These waterproof binoculars are best for outdoor activities. The UV ray protection offered by these binoculars is a plus point. Thes esthetics of these binoculars makes it a desirable choice. Its weight makes it easier for outdoor activists to carry. While searching for the best zoom binoculars, this equipment stands out. The binocular scores high in multiple components and is a very credible product. The reason being its close minimum focus distance.

Despite having so many features,  this binoculars is pretty light-weighted. The zoom of these binoculars can be easily adjusted using a circular ring type zoom system on the top of the binoculars.  Lets now discuss the pros and cons of these binoculars.

Pros

  • The 8-16X magnification provides versatility for a wide range of activities, from bird watching to stargazing.
  • With a 40mm objective lens diameter, these binoculars offer bright and clear images even in low-light conditions.
  • With a 40mm objective lens diameter, these binoculars offer bright and clear images even in low-light conditions.
  • With a 40mm objective lens diameter, these binoculars offer bright and clear images even in low-light conditions.

Cons

  • With a 40mm objective lens diameter, these binoculars offer bright and clear images even in low-light conditions.
  • The field of view may be narrower compared to some models, impacting the ability to capture broader scenes.
  • The field of view may be narrower compared to some models, impacting the ability to capture broader scenes.
  • The field of view may be narrower compared to some models, impacting the ability to capture broader scenes.

4. Celestron Skymaster 15-35×70 Zoom Binoculars

 The Celestron SkyMaster Zoom binoculars come in two zoom options. If you are into star gazing or are intrigued by the sky, then these are the best fit for you. The diopter adjuster is used for the refinement of images. You can get these binoculars at a very affordable price. The external body of these binoculars is rubber-coated. The rubber will protect the binoculars from rough handling. These binoculars score high in a variety of components, from affordability to durability. The long eye relief that these binoculars provided are a desirable feature.  The Bak-4 prism will provide a higher light transmission rate for low light conditions.

The multi-coated lens enhances the sharpness and crispness of your final image.  These days binoculars coating is often a significant sign of zoom binoculars that are considered the best. These binoculars are water-resistant and come with a very appealing case.

The brand loyalty behind this product is also a plus point. The company specializes in making telescopes, so the product has some credibility. These binoculars come with smartphone adapters to capture the magnified images. The binocular is compatible with a tripod. The binoculars come with a tripod adapter to prolong the viewing session Users that wear glasses have reported that it’s easy to use these binoculars. 

Pros

  • Impressive 15-35x magnification for versatile use in various observational scenarios.
  • 70mm objective lenses enhance light-gathering capability, ideal for low-light conditions and stargazing.
  • Tripod mount compatibility provides stability for extended viewing sessions, reducing hand fatigue.

Cons

  • While resistant to light moisture, they may not be fully waterproof, limiting their suitability in certain weather conditions.
  • While durable, some users may find the build quality to be mid-range compared to higher-end models in the market.
  • Larger objective lenses contribute to a bulkier and heavier design, impacting portability.

5. Celestron – Skymaster 20X80 Astro Binoculars

  • POWERFUL 20X MAGNIFICATION: Giant astronomy binoculars feature massive 80mm objective lenses and powerful 20x magnification. These binoculars are ideal for long-distance viewing of land-based subjects or astronomical observing at night.
  • INCLUDES TRIPOD ADAPTER: Stabilize your binocular for added comfort and shake-free views. Mount your 80mm SkyMaster binoculars on any traditional photographic tripod with the built-in tripod adapter.
  • BRIGHT, SHARP VIEWS WITH BaK-4 PRISMS: The SkyMaster is a favorite among those who view in dim conditions near dawn and dusk or at night for astronomy. BaK-4 prisms maximize light throughput to your eye so you see brighter, more detailed images.
  • DURABLE AND WATER-RESISTANT: A rubber-armored housing protects your binoculars from damage and provides a secure gripping surface. The water-resistant exterior stands up to tough conditions and unexpected rainy weather.
  • UNBEATABLE WARRANTY & CUSTOMER SUPPORT: Buy with confidence from Celestron, a leading optics brand in California since 1960. Your purchase includes a Celestron Limited Lifetime US Warranty & US-based expert tech support.

Last update on April 24, 2024 / Affiliate links / All Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Astronomy viewing is the best feature of these binoculars. They are known to perform exceptionally well in this domain. They come with a wide variety of features that make them the best in their league.  Terrestrial use is another fantastic area where these binoculars perform over average.

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These binoculars come in a variety of models. All models come with a BAK-4 Prism. The lens within these binoculars is coated with multiple coatings to improve contrast. The model that comes with 20x 80 mm is waterproof and is well re-enforced. They also come with a built-in photo tripod adapter. Most models come with a feature that is known as interchangeable eyecups. You can choose between a standard view or a winged view with the help of this interchangeable cap. 

 Most models come with a very high-quality deluxe carrying case. The binoculars have been often rated the best zoom binoculars for people wearing eyeglasses. Though these binoculars are very well built and are given five stars in durability, they still have a limited warranty.

The  Celestron – SkyMaster 20X80 is waterproof. The overall weight of these binoculars is a little over your average binoculars. To fully utilize the binoculars, you need a big tripod, but the product usually comes with a base adapter plate. The pre-drilled holes will make these binoculars compatible with a variety of other heavy-duty options. 

Pros

  • The included deluxe carrying case provides convenient storage and protection, facilitating easy transport for stargazing sessions.
  • Sturdy construction and a durable exterior ensure longevity, making them suitable for outdoor use in various astronomical settings.
  • The 80mm objective lenses offer a large aperture, allowing for better light gathering and enhanced visibility of faint astronomical objects.
  • Powerful 20x magnification provides detailed views of celestial objects, making them ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.

Cons

  • Powerful 20x magnification provides detailed views of celestial objects, making them ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
  • The binoculars may be bulkier than smaller models, potentially affecting portability for users seeking compact options.
  • The binoculars may be bulkier than smaller models, potentially affecting portability for users seeking compact options.
  • These binoculars may not be fully waterproof, limiting their use in adverse weather conditions or environments with moisture.

6. BARSKA Gladiator Binoculars with Ruby Lens

  • Powerful zoom with different magnifications ideal for all outdoor activities and sporting events
  • Fully coated optics for crisp and sharp images with ruby lens to minimize glare
  • Large objective lens to maximize light transmission
  • Ergonomic design with shock-absorbing rubber armor
  • Includes carrying case and neckstrap
  • For highest Magnification we recommend to put binocular on a tripod.
  • Note: User manual available under product details

Last update on April 24, 2024 / Affiliate links / All Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you want to get affordable binoculars at a very nominal price, we would recommend the   Barska 10-30×50 Zoom Gladiator binoculars. With a blend of higher and lower magnification, you can view objects that are quite far apart and objects that are pretty close to each other. It has a magnification lever that is very easy to adjust. The Barska Gladiator binoculars come in 3 different variations. Each variation of this binoculars comes in other magnification options.  One should know that this is a crucial feature for the best zoom binoculars. You can easily change the magnification settings.

There are two colors available for these binoculars. The binoculars are said to be not that durable as compared to their counterparts. Dropping these binoculars can cause severe problems for them. The majority of people that buy these binoculars are into wildlife and bird watching. 

Its zoom option provides an ability to change its magnification, making it very suitable for outdoor and indoor activities. Its objective lens is huge to maximize its light transmission.  The binoculars usually come with a carrying case and neck strap. The company also provides employees with a user manual, so they are aware of all the features. The binoculars come in two colors, black and blue.  

Pros

  • Enhanced light transmission and reduced glare for improved image clarity.
  • Offers a broad field of view, ideal for various activities like bird watching or sports events.
  • Provides budget-friendly options without compromising essential features.

Cons

  • The ruby lenses may limit low-light visibility compared to fully multi-coated alternatives.
  • These binoculars might be bulkier compared to some lightweight models.
  • These binoculars might be bulkier compared to some lightweight models.

7. Bushnell Engage Binoculars

  • The Engage EDX - A best-in-class optic with industry-leading features. The entire line is backed with the all-weather assurance of Bushnell's exclusive EXO Barrier lens coating - it repels water, debris, oil and fog. The fully multi-coated optics offer maximum brightness and clarity, and they're housed in a lightweight and rugged magnesium chassis
  • ED Prime Glass - Bushnell's highest quality glass delivers amazing color, resolution and contrast, even in low-light conditions
  • Exclusive EXO Barrier Protection - Bushnell's newest and best protective lens coating molecularly bonds to the glass, repelling water, oil, dust, debris and preventing scratches
  • Dielectric Prism Coating - Applied to the prisms, it ensures vivid color reproduction and allows 92% light transmission for bright images
  • Waterproof Design - Lightweight yet rugged magnesium chassis is fully waterproof

Last update on April 24, 2024 / Affiliate links / All Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

These Binoculars are one of the most versatile pieces of equipment you can own and specifically designed for outdoor activities. The manufactures used environmentally friendly lenses in the creation of these binoculars. The binoculars also come with a free return policy. Special offers may or may not include discounts, add ons, accessories, flat cuts, and other perks. All options of these binoculars have different magnifications. 

The quality of these binoculars is top-notch, and they come at a price that justifies this quality. Having an 8x binoculars from a mere 42mm objective lens makes these binoculars a very credible binocular while searching for the best zoom binoculars. The binoculars are available in 4 different options.

Special offers are available at the time of purchase. These binoculars have an ED (Extra-low dispersion) that can improve the brightness a lot. The lenses that are in this unit are multi-coated and usually equipped with ECO Glass. Furthermore, these binoculars have an outstanding performance in low light conditions. The images are quite clear using these binoculars. They are soft to carry and come with a unique barrier known as the EXO barrier. The barrier makes these binoculars waterproof. The binoculars will also repel oil and fog to some extent. Despite being a little pricey, they have excellent ratings. 

Pros

  • Superior optical clarity for detailed observation.
  • Durable matte black finish for long-lasting use.
  • Comfortable grip for extended viewing sessions.
  • Waterproof and fog-proof design for reliable performance in any weather.

Cons

  • Limited field of view may affect tracking fast-moving subjects.
  • Some users may find them slightly heavy for prolonged use.
  • Eyecups may not provide optimal comfort for all users.
  • Higher price point compared to some competitors in the market.

8. Celestron UpClose G2 10-30×50 Zoom Porro Binoculars

Suppose you’re on a budget and want to opt for binoculars that Are not heavy on the pocket. We would recommend the Celestron UpClose G2 10-30×50 Zoom Porro Binocular Even though these binoculars cost a lot less considering its counterparts but offer variable zoom up to 10-30x. The magnification will allow you to zoom in to your target easily. These binoculars are one of the best zoom binoculars. The body is coated with armor to protect the binoculars. Sometimes special offers are included with these binoculars.

See also  What Does 10-22x50 Binoculars Mean? A Comprehensive Guide

These offers may or may not include discounts, add ons, accessories, flat cuts, and other perks. Amazon product support comes with this product. The eyecups of these binoculars are very comfortable and are adjustable for use with glasses or not. These binoculars are suitable for sporting events. It has multi-coated optics for increased light transmission. The optics often makes your end images sharper, brighter and higher contrast levels.

Many individuals use these binoculars for outdoor activities as well. We can easily classify this as the best zoom binoculars while we are talking from a budget standpoint. The binoculars are compatible with a tripod. Let us examine the pros and cons of these binoculars. 

Pros

  • Versatile zoom range allows for varied magnification levels.
  • Porro prism design delivers excellent depth perception and image quality.
  • Large objective lens diameter enhances light transmission for brighter views.
  • Rubber armor provides durability and a comfortable grip for extended use.

Cons

  • Bulkier and heavier compared to compact binoculars for increased portability.
  • Zoom feature may compromise image quality at higher magnification levels.
  • Limited field of view at maximum zoom may make tracking fast-moving subjects challenging.
  • Eyecups may not provide sufficient comfort for eyeglass wearers.

9. Nikon 7496 Eagle view Zoom 8-24 X 25mm Binoculars

  • Quick central focusing
  • Sharp multicoated optics for superb contrast and vivid color
  • New ergonomic body design
  • BaK4 high index prisms
  • Diopter adjustment for strain-free viewing

Last update on April 24, 2024 / Affiliate links / All Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you are aspiring for compact binoculars, then this might be the best zoom binoculars for you. Despite being very tight, the binoculars offer excellent magnification. These binoculars are well known for the great zoom capabilities they have. There is a zoom switch on the top, which makes the magnification very quickly. If you are into bird viewing, then these binoculars might not be the best choice for you. These binoculars come with a diopter adjuster. The binoculars have a very swift changing mechanism for its four different types of magnifications.

The focusing of the Nikon 7496 is quick. Detailed images of birds are one thing these binoculars can not do. These binoculars have a minimum diameter that makes it harder for the light to enter. The small diameter of the lenses results in blurry images in low light.

Furthermore, when you’re prioritizing high magnification, you may find it challenging to observe clear pictures. This binoculars is not compatible with a tripod and is not waterproof. We would still recommend this budget-friendly option for general use. Depending on your usage, the Nikon 7496 Eagle view May qualify as your own personal best zoom binoculars.

Pros

  • Versatile zoom range (8-24x) for flexible magnification options.
  • Compact and lightweight design for easy portability.
  • Multi-coated optics ensure bright and clear images.
  • Ergonomic design with twist-up eyecups for comfortable viewing.

Cons

  • Narrow field of view at higher magnifications.
  • Limited low-light performance due to small objective lens diameter.
  • Zoom mechanism may introduce image distortion at extreme magnifications.
  • Eye relief may be insufficient for eyeglass wearers at higher magnifications.

10. SoB Super Military binoculars 20-50×70

These binoculars are one of the most potent binoculars on our list. The overall aesthetics of these binoculars are beautiful. The design of these binoculars gives it a unique touch. While searching for the best zoom binoculars on the market, power sometimes makes a considerable distinction. These binoculars are excellent for magnifications. These binoculars have one of the most impressive magnification capabilities.

The lenses that equip these binoculars are all multi-coated, and the binoculars itself comes with UV protected aluminum to prevent scratches. Some parts of the body are rubber coated. The specs that these binoculars have makes it very powerful binoculars: magnification, the field of view, materials. Lenses and other materials are all greater than average. Considering its price, we can give it more points for its value for money. 

Due to the colossal magnification range of this device, you need to mount this device. Mounting this device can help you in obtaining a stabilized image. These binoculars often absorb light for easy viewing. There is a limited number of this product available usually. This device comes with a carrying case and a neck strap. Please note that this binocular often comes with various special offers. Let us now examine the multiple pros and cons of these binoculars.

Pros

  • Exceptional clarity for day and night viewing.
  • Powerful 20-50x zoom capability for detailed observations.
  • Rugged military-grade construction ensures durability in harsh conditions.
  • Versatile use for both daytime and nighttime activities.

Cons

  • Heavier weight may impact extended use or portability.
  • Narrower field of view at higher magnifications.
  • Higher price point compared to standard binoculars.
  • Requires steady hand or tripod for optimal stability at maximum zoom

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision rests with you, as each zoom binocular offers unique strengths and some trade-offs. Our exhaustive research ensures this article serves as your comprehensive guide to the finest zoom binoculars. We are confident that this list outshines any other, providing versatile options suitable for various buyers.

If you’re still undecided, our top recommendations are the Nikon 8252 Aculon A211 and the Olympus 8-16X40 Zoom DPS I Binoculars. Backed by stellar reviews and high ratings, these versatile and durable binoculars stand out, offering an investment in quality optics that won’t disappoint.

FAQs

Are zoom binoculars any good?

Zoom binoculars can be advantageous for versatile applications, offering variable magnification for flexible use in different scenarios. However, they may have trade-offs such as reduced field of view or image brightness at higher zoom levels. Consider your specific needs and preferences before choosing zoom binoculars.

What is the best zoom size binoculars?

The best zoom size for binoculars depends on your specific needs. For general purposes like bird-watching or sports events, a 10x or 12x magnification is often ideal, providing a good balance between zoom and stability. However, for more specialized uses like astronomy or long-range observation, higher magnifications such as 20x or 25x may be preferred.

What is the highest optical zoom in binoculars?

Canon holds the record for the highest optical zoom in binoculars with their Canon 18×50 IS All Weather Binoculars. These binoculars offer an impressive 18x magnification, providing users with powerful zoom capabilities for detailed observations of distant objects. Please note that newer models may have been released since then.

What is the zoom level on binoculars?

Binoculars typically have a fixed magnification level or a variable zoom range expressed as two numbers (e.g., 8-16×40). The first number indicates the lowest magnification level, while the second number denotes the highest, providing users the flexibility to adjust the zoom for various viewing scenarios.

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