The Canon 10x30 IS II is a compact, second-generation image-stabilised binocular aimed at long days of bird and nature watching or sporting events. Vari-Angle prisms sit between the front lens and the main prism; when gyro sensors detect vertical or horizontal movement, the prisms adjust to compensate, producing smoother views and panning. A microcomputer running Canon's stabilisation algorithms also shortens start-up time and improves battery efficiency, and the binocular runs on two AA alkaline or NiMH batteries.

Optically it combines lead-free glass with Super Spectra multicoatings to reduce light loss and improve contrast, a Porro prism optical path for a natural sense of depth, and doublet field-flattener lenses. Eye relief is a comfortable 14.5mm, with a wide apparent field of view and focusing via a centre focus wheel.