10x or even 15x will be unable to see details or cloud swirls on Jupiter, you need 100x and above to resolve any details on the planets clearly, and a larger aperture than even 70mm to be able to see this.
Binoculars give a small magnification but a really wide field with no obstruction, so they are fabulous for point and view convenience and pleasing views of clusters, nebulae, stars and such, but do not cut it for close up views of planets or galaxies, for this you WILL need a telescope.
if i were you i would purchase the 8x56 ($180) orion bino's in the classifieds for sale section here -they will be a step above the entry level chinese ones you might have been thinking about form andrews, the pentax is another good recommendation but they usually are around 250 for a PCF waterproof 10x50. I have the 10x50 ultras from andrews (279) & they are excellent.
i would jump on the orions - they are heavy but you should be easily able to hand hold 8x, with very little shake
as for 7x vs 10x i would say it is a significant difference - the 10x shows a bit more on dso's but then there is also extra shake - you have to develop your own technique how to hold them. Comparing both i prefer the higher mag of 10x - but others will like 7x - its a personal choice
mounting 10x isn't really necessary - i only do it when i want to sketch
Ok, I just had a look at Andrews Communications and they're selling a pair of Andrews-branded 11x 70mm binoculas for $149. I looked through them and they feel good and have a lot of light collection. They're also light in weight and the staff tell me they're very popular. I like them.
Anyone else have these? How do they rate?
Here's the specifications off the website:
High contrast BBFMC
11 X 70 binoculars
Upgraded model just arrived!
$149.00 AUD
In stock!
Sharp, extra-high contrast viewing in a large aperture binocular! Ideal for general astronomical viewing...
Broadband fully multicoated (BBFMC) to level IV on all BAK4 prisms and objective lens!!
I have said before in my post I have the 11 x 70 ones from Andrews, albeit the earlier model and they are great, although a bit heavy to hold for long periods. As Leon says, anything over 50mm binos will get heavy quickly. These upgraded versions sound good, and they are the same price as they were when I bought mine about 2 yrs ago.
I am looking at the Saxon L20 x 80 from Astronomy Alive for $180. Really looking for something portable for quick views - yes a tripod is in the equation.
Then I see something like Sakura 20 x 180 on ebay...hmmm..anyone have any experience with these...??
Believe it or not, I am going through the same path that you did a couple of years back At the moment, the Andrews 11x70 seem like the better choice for me.
What did you end up getting? If the Andrews 11x70, what is the quality like and are you able to see the moons of Jupiter and the rings of saturn? Are they quite shaky on their own or do you have to use a tripod to see the planets (Jupiter/Saturn) ?
At the moment, the Andrews 11x70 seem like the better choice for me.
+1 on the sakura's , they are rubbish . 
be ok for terrestial viewing ? 
