Optically, side by side vs the Swaro 65mm they are on par with the Kowa being only 28 ounces (same as the average 10x42 binocular). The Swaro will get you a few extra minutes at dawn and dusk and will also have a slightly wider FOV. The Kowa will fit in the water bottle holder on the side of your pack and quite honestly it is so small and light you'll never think of not bringing it along