Swarovski STC/ATC vs Kowa 55s/55a

[Doc Holliday]

I have all the specs from each and I know what they cost. My question is has anyone out there had experience with both and did you prefer one over the other and why

 

[gf99-99]

I have been humming and hawing over these for a while also. Would love to know as well!

S&S did a pretty good review here

 

[NeedleCrook]

Newer atc/stc review from S&S. Sounds like the the swaro has grown on them from the first review. I’ve never used the Kowa, so far happy with my stc. A lot of it might come down to personal preference.

 

[MrGlass]

I’ve look at both above videos and found this one through my YouTube search as well. This video is also another good option to look at if you want more info on the STC or ATC from Swaro.

 

[particleman14]

STC, most compact and clarity. kowa55s are very close as well, the angled is more compact but the straight is much easier/quicker for target acquisition. At that handheld size, the rotary focus (which are very smooth) feels more natural when you zoom/focus at same time.

 

[MallardSX2]

I want the stc really bad. I’m gonna have to sell some stuff and buy me one.

 

[WeiserBucks]

I want the stc really bad. I’m gonna have to sell some stuff and buy me one.

Take a hard look at the Kowa 1st.

 

[Isildur]

I've tried them both inside a shop and optically I couldn't split them. The Kowa star tested slightly better than the Swarovski bit it didn't seem to make a difference to the image quality of both which was too close to call. As usual it would come down to finding the best sample you can.

If you need ER the Swarovski might/should be best but best to try them if you can. I haven't seen any Kowa's in the field but have ATC's.

 

[WeiserBucks]

I've tried them both inside a shop and optically I couldn't split them. The Kowa star tested slightly better than the Swarovski bit it didn't seem to make a difference to the image quality of both which was too close to call. As usual it would come down to finding the best sample you can.

If you need ER the Swarovski might/should be best but best to try them if you can. I haven't seen any Kowa's in the field but have ATC's.

ER?

 

[Blockcaver]

ER = Eye Relief? Important if you wear glasses when you glass.

 

[WeiserBucks]

ER = Eye Relief? Important if you wear glasses when you glass.

Hadn't considered that.

 

[White Mamba]

I like the swaros , brighter and better field of view

 

[223dude]

I owned both.
They are really close optically.
This Swarovski is more durable/ tough.
I kept the kowa as it seemed to be just a little better to my eyes a slightly better eye box.

Call Doug @Camera Land and he will make you a good deal.

 

[6gunner]

I’ve been looking at both and can’t decide. I would really like to look through a Kowa, but all reviews have said they are pretty close.