I'm sure if their compact they have a small objective, and thus a very low exit pupil. Typically, compact binos aren't good for evening viewing, especially those that are 12x. When you mix 12x with a 20mm objective you looking at an exit pupil <1....not good for light gathering. I'm sure if you paid $25 for them, their not fully multi-coated lenseseither. If your wanting the best evening viewing you'll have to sacrifice somewhere, either with bulk, lower magnification, or $$$. The nighthunter series is suprisingly lightweight for the size, maybe the 7x50s would interest you. I had some 10x50 bushnells and replaced em' with the 8x56 steiners and couldn't tell a bit of diff. in the magnification....the quality of the steiners more that compensated for the 2x diff. If you looking for a cheaper pair, Alpine makes some decent waterproof binos that are slimmer and probably lighter.Most people say you get what you pay for in optics....I'd probably agree for the most part. Good luck.