Binoculars have changed the way we perceive the world. An optical device designed on the principle of function of another optical device, the telescope. A telescope, however useful, had its limitations due to the use of a single eye for viewing. This affected the projected image and put a strain on the eye. By utilizing two scopes rather than one, binoculars have perfected the already existing technology.
Binoculars are an essential piece of equipment if you are into cartography, navigation, sniping or any other similar occupations. Also, it is a tool much needed for hobbyists like bird watchers, stargazers, hunters, etc. A high-end, well-designed binocular can easily cost you around $500 and higher. However, there are many models out there which can be bought for as little as $200 and can provide with the same performance as any high-priced binocular.
What is to follow is a well-researched list of features, based on performance and ease-of-use, which an average or professional can refer to while buy a good and cheap binocular.
Top 3 Picks
Binoculars Under $200 Reviews
Vortex Optics Diamondback Roof Prism 8×32 Binoculars
Vortex Diamondback binoculars are known to be the most durable pair of binoculars. They have been around for quite some time now but were redesigned to a much impressive version in 2016. They are also one of the most popular ranges of binoculars due to their lower cost and a wide choice of configurations they offer and have been the perfect solution for hikers, nature lovers, hunters, etc.
The Vortex Diamondback 8×32 binoculars are fitted with roof prisms, are lightweight and well balanced. They provide noticeably clearer images with greater contrast. The field of view is wider at 420 feet/1000 yards, which is more generous than its counterparts. The phase corrected roof prism and multicoated glass creates stunning images. The external rubber armor is quite textured and provides a strong and quality grip. The dielectric coatings of the prism enhance image resolution, color, and contrast. The focus knob is quite precise and easy to use. Further, the O-ring seal makes them waterproof and fog proof as well.
Pros
- Good resolution in low light conditions
- Durability with rugged rubber armor
- Lightweight and compact design
- Wider Field of view
Cons
- Image not as sharp around the outer edges
- 8x magnification and 32mm objective lenses, these Diamondback binoculars are the workhorse of Vortex lineup; known for impressive optical quality and durability.
- Dielectric, fully multi-coated lenses transmit more light and clearer, brighter images. A field of view that is one of the largest in its class helps you efficiently glass your surroundings and identify your target.
- A sleek, short hinge design with rubber armor and thumb indents leaves more room for your hands creating an easier, secure, non-slip grip.
- Multi-position eyecups twist up for adjustable eye relief. A right eye diopter accomodates for focal differences in your eyes.
- Argon purging and rubber armor provide enhanced waterproof and fogproof performance in extreme weather conditions. Field of View: 426 feet/1000 yards|8.1 degrees
Nikon PROSTAFF 7S 10×42 Binoculars
Nikon PROSTAFF 7S 10×42 Binoculars are an ideal choice for those who wish to own good quality binoculars from a reputed brand at an affordable price. They are an excellent pair of binoculars with a stylish design and are one of the most popular binoculars among the masses.
Their high quality and innovative components make for a highly desirable pair of binoculars. They fall into the lightweight category because of their total weight of just 22.7 ounces. The ergonomic design features an exterior armor that is rubberized and non-slippery for optimal grip. The rubber coating provides shock resistance and makes them a durable pair of binoculars.
Nikon PROSTAFF 7S 10×42 binoculars come loaded with lots of optical and technological features including phase corrective coated roof prisms, multicoated eco-glass lenses, adjustable eye relief and are waterproof as well as fog proof.
The fully multi-coated lenses produce bright and clear images by maximizing the transmission of light through the binoculars and reducing reflection and glare. Phase corrective coating on roof prisms reduces chromatic aberration significantly.
They boast of all-terrain applicability because of their resistance to water and fog. The O-Ring seal and nitrogen filling makes it possible to prevent moisture from entering the unit and causing problems. This further helps in protecting the binoculars from dust and impurities, making them dustproof as well.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to hold
- Environment-friendly
- Long eye relief
- Waterproof, fog proof and dust proof
Cons
- No zoom
- Lens caps don’t attach easily
- Whether you're looking at wildlife or scenery, 2 things are important: color and clarity The PROSTAFF 7S brings you both, thanks to Fully Multilayer Coated lenses and Phase Correction Coated Roof Prisms
- Even eyeglass wearers will enjoy looking through the PROSTAFF 7S The turn and slide rubber eyecups allow anyone to adjust the space between their eye and the binocular's eyepiece, ensuring a full field of view
- The PROSTAFF 7S is comfortable to hold, even in wet conditions, thanks to its rubber armored body The rubber armor also protects the binocular in case it is dropped or handled roughly
Bushnell Legend L Series 10×42 Binoculars
Bushnell has been in the business of creating optical devices for quite some time now. They are known for designing some of the best devices for hunting, wildlife and tactical use. The Bushnell Legend L series has been developed after years of perfecting their art of designing optical devices.
Bushnell Legend L series is a compact and small-sized binocular with dimensions 7.2×6.1×3.1 inches and weighs a very light 1.46 pounds. The Legends L series comes with a magnification power of x10. The 42mm objective lens is a perfect fit if you plan on going on a Safari or bird watching. The 18mm eye relief and 4.2mm exit pupil are comfortable to the eye and produce a good final picture.
Fully Multi-Coated lens coating reduces light reflection and avoids any image distortion or optical phenomena. The BAK 4 prism produces crisp and accurate images and being coated with a Phase 3 coating enhances the crispness of the image. The close focus of the binocular is found to be 8 ft and has a large field of view at 340 ft.
Pros
- A large field of view
- Rain-guard HD coating avoids water or fog layer formation
Cons
- No Dielectric prism coating
- Small objective lens
- 10 x 42Millimeter. Length-5.5 inch
- Legend L Series
- 340ft field of view
Bushnell 133450 Falcon 10×50 Wide Angle Binoculars
Bushnell has made its name in the optical devices market by developing products that deliver great performance. They have spent many hours and capital on finding the right recipe to build the perfect binocular. The Falcon 10x50mm is no exception. It is a high-quality binocular made for your viewing pleasure. This binocular is a perfect fit for you if you are into outdoor activities like bird watching and wildlife safaris.
It is a wide-angle binocular with dimensions 9.3×8.2×4.2 inches and weighs 1.68 pounds. It comes with a large 50mm objective lens which provides for a lot of light to enter the scope, improving the picture quality. 10x the magnification is able to provide a better-detailed image of the subject. The exit pupil is of 5mm and delivers good image and the eye relief is of 9mm.
The binocular utilises Porro Prisms. Paired with an objective lens which has full lens coating, the image produced is distortion and optical phenomena free. The exterior of the binocular is made keeping high durability in mind. It has been created using rubberized, abrasion-resistant finish. Along with an ergonomically design, the Falcon is very comfortable to hold, especially for a prolonged period of time. A field of view of 300 ft means you never miss any action. From one fixed position, you can view large areas without moving your head too much.
Pros
- Large objective lens
- Durable design
- A large field of view
Cons
- Uses Porro prism rather than higher quality BAK4
- Small eye relief
- Exit Pupil (millimeter):5, Eye Relief (millimeter):9
- 25 Feet close focusing distance, 27 Ounce weigh
- Boasts durable design and rubberized, abrasion resistant finish
- Porro prism; full lens coating provide sharp viewing
Bushnell Trophy XLT 10×42 Binoculars
They are all water-, fog-, and dust-proof thanks to the nitrogen purging and O-ring seals and can be considered tough, durable and dependable. They are an ideal choice for hunting, hiking, camping, etc.
The objective lens on this binocular is 42mm in size. As it lets ample amount to enter the scope, the images produce are bright and crisp. A 10x magnification will help you in viewing the subject at much more detailed and about ten times its original size.
Trophy XLT binoculars make use of BAK-4 prisms and multicoated lenses to provide bright, sharp and clear images without any color fringing. The objective lenses are protected by flip covers. They have an ultra-fast focusing system which is perfect for hunting. They also provide a very wide field of view and are capable of giving excellent performance in different light and weather conditions. They come with Dura-grip rubber coatings and soft touch thumb grips to make them comfortable for extended observations. The chassis is made of 100% high-quality materials which are extensively tested. One of the unique features involves these binoculars being 100% lead-free, which makes them an environment-friendly model produced by Bushnell. At 25 ounces, they are a portable pair of binoculars.
Pros
- Dura-grip rubber armor
- Soft-touch thumb grips
- Lightweight and portable design
- Multicoated optics
- Weather resistant
Cons
- Focusing issues
- Low-quality flip covers
- Bundle includes the Trophy XLT Roof Prism Binoculars, 10x42 millilitre(Bone Collector Edition) + Deluxe Binocular Harness
- Fully multi coated optics deliver ultra bright, razor sharp images
- O ring sealed and nitrogen purged for 100% waterproof/fog proof dependability
- Fast focus center focus wheel, 15.2 milliliter eye relief and only 25 ounce
- Deluxe binocular harness keeps the weight off of your neck and keeps your optics front and center
Leupold BX-1 McKenzie 10×42 Binoculars
Leupold BX-1 McKenzie 10×42 Binoculars are one of the most popular Leupold products on the market today. They are an affordable unit of all-purpose binoculars that are considered ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. This is partly because of the standard set of features that these binoculars possess and because of the lightweight design. These binoculars have a light chassis of about 22 ounces making them portable and ideal for the 10×42 configured binoculars.
Leupold BX-1 McKenzie binoculars are one of the very few Leupold binoculars that have a roof prism design instead of a Porro prism one. The advantage of a roof prism design over Porro prism is that it makes the binoculars lightweight and much more rugged. Also, they improve the light transmission capabilities of a pair of binoculars and reduce any kind of chromatic aberration. The custom twisted eyecups and the wide IPD (Inter Pupillary Distance) range offered by these binoculars provide a true and exact fit for any customer.
Pros
- Wide IPD range
- Fully waterproof and fog proof
- Value for money
Cons
- Quality Control issues
- Leupold model #173788 Bx-1 McKenzie 10x42mm in shadow Gray
- 100% waterproof, Fog proof, & shockproof
- Fully multi-coated lens system ensures maximum brightness for clarity, contrast, and color fidelity
- Back 4 Prisms deliver a perfectly round exit pupil with virtually no edge distortion and a crisp, clear image
- Open bridge, Roof Prism design - extremely lightweight and ergonomic
Leupold BX-1 Yosemite 6×30 Binoculars
Leupold BX-1 Yosemite 6×30 Binoculars are a small and compact pair of binoculars which are capable of providing an all-around optical performance. These binoculars come with fully multicoated lenses and BAK-4 prisms for a superior level of light transmission and better quality of images. They boast of a 420 feet/1000 yards wide field of view and have a 5 mm exit pupil to support an exquisite amount of light transmission resulting in bright and crystal clear views. This pair of binoculars can be considered high performing as well as user-friendly. The IPD or Inter Pupillary Distance for these binoculars is adjustable which makes it easy to get a custom fit for any user. The design employs Porro prisms with BAK-4 glass to enhance the optical performance.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design
- Waterproof
- Long eye relief
- Excellent optical performance
Cons
- Not fog-proof
- Model #172703 BX-1 Yosemite 6x30mm in shadow Gray
- 100% waterproof, Fog proof, & shockproof
- Fully multi-coated lens system ensures maximum brightness for clarity, contrast, and color fidelity
- Back 4 Prisms deliver a perfectly round exit pupil with virtually no edge distortion and a crisp, clear image
- Phase coated Roof Prisms significantly increase resolution for a sharp sight picture
Redfield Rebel 10×42 Binoculars
Redfield Rebel 10×42 Binoculars are a worthy pair of binoculars which provide an array of features under 200 bucks. At around $150, these binoculars provide the perfect 10×42 configuration and have everything that you need for your outdoor expedition. The features have been optimized to provide maximum usability. The features include water and fog resistance, fully multicoated lenses, phase corrected BAK-4 prisms, and a fully armored aluminum body.
The multicoated lenses provide ultimate light transmission and the BAK-4 prism glass ensures superior and brilliant image quality. The fully armored aluminum body makes these binoculars durable and robust as well as provide a secure grip.
Redfield Rebel 10×42 binoculars are a popular choice among several customers and have received a lot of attention and positive feedback from the reviewers.
Pros
- Value for money
- Aluminum armored body
- Weatherproof
- Multicoated optics
Cons
- Sometimes hard to focus with
- Waterproof, fog proof, shock proof
- Enormous 65-degree apparent field of view
- Fully multi-coated lenses for true-to-life color transmission
- Fully armored aluminum body lets you use your Redfield Rebel out there in the field for many years to come
Nikon Action Extreme 10×50 ATB Binoculars
Nikon is mainly known for creating great DSLRs and their lenses. However, the company has been able to make its name in binoculars and telescope market by delivering the same picture quality as it delivers in its cameras. One of the best binoculars that they have delivered is the Nikon Action 10×50 EX.
The Action Extreme comes with a large objective lens of 50mm. A large objective lens allows more light from the subject to enter the scope, hence, improving its picture quality. The 10X magnification is able to provide a distortion-free and large image of the observed subject. At high magnification, the low-light performance of binoculars is known to falter. However, the large objective lens compensates for the problem.
The scope of standard size with dimensions 9.5×8.4×4.6 inches and weighs 4.8 ounces. Field of view of the binocular is 114 meters and it is able to cover a large area without moving the scope too much. The binocular has a large eye relief, around 17.2 mm and an exit pupil of 5mm. A close focus of 7meters means that any object further than this can be focused upon for better picture.
Pros
- Large objective lens compensates large magnification
- Good eye relief for viewing comfort
- Nitrogen filled and fog/water resistant
Cons
- Small exit pupil strains the eyes
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance
- All-metal chassis in lightweight polycarbonate shell
- Rubber-coated body for firm, non-slip grip
- Magnification: 10x
- Objective lens: 50mm
Other Best Selling Options
- BaK-4 Prisms w/ Phase Coating: Increases contrast and resolution for sharper more detailed images
- Fully Multi-Coated Optics: Allows maximum light transmission through the optical path for brighter images
- 6.5’ Close Focus: Detailed, up close observation of subjects in close proximity. Ideal for watching birds, insects, plants, etc
- Compact and Lightweight. Sturdy, twist-up eyecups with multiple stops. Eyeglass friendly with 17.5 mm of eye relief
- Wide Field of View
- Universal smartphone optics adapter fits nearly all smartphones and phablets like the iPhone 11/XS/XS Max/X/8+/8/7+/7 with cases up to 3.75 inches wide | NOT Compatible with tablets or riflescopes
- Universal - Compatible with most optics including binoculars, spotting scopes, telescopes, microscopes (including slit lamps), monocular, endoscopes, borescopes and more | Compatible eyepiece diameters must range between 25-58mm in diameter
- Contains a patented self-centering, dual-spring, quick-release clamp and an optic cam-lock for a tighter grip on your eyepiece to prevent sagging and slippage issues | Compatible with Multi Camera Phones
- Horizontal phone alignment is done using a variable pitch screw for fine control but can also be moved quickly b/w an iPhone (corner camera) And Android (center camera) positions
- Backed by Carson's Limited Lifetime | Included with an EVA storage case and a lens spacer for added eye relief
- 8x magnification & 42mm objective lenses, these Diamondback HD binos are optimized with select glass elements to deliver exceptional resolution, cut chromatic aberration and provide outstanding color fidelity, sharpness and light transmission.
- Fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission with anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. Dielectric coating provides bright, clear, color-accurate images. Armortek coating protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil and dirt.
- Adjustable eyecups twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses. Center focus wheel adjusts the focus of both binocular barrels at the same time. Diopter (located on right eyepiece) adjusts for differences in a user's eyes.
- Rubber armor provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection. Binoculars are tripod adaptable allowing use on a tripod or car window mount.
- Argon purging and O-ring seals provide water and Fog proof performance in all environments. Rugged construction withstands recoil and impact. Includes glass Pak harness.
- 10x magnification & 42mm objective lenses, these Crossfire HD binos are optimized with select glass elements to deliver exceptional resolution, cut chromatic aberration and provide outstanding color fidelity, edge-to-edge sharpness and light transmission.
- Fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. Roof prism design is valued for greater durability and a more compact size.
- Adjustable eyecups twist up and down for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses. Center focus wheel adjusts the focus of both binocular barrels at the same time. Diopter (located on right eyepiece) adjusts for differences in a user's eyes.
- Rubber armor provides a secure, non-slip grip, and durable external protection. Binoculars are tripod adaptable allowing use on a tripod or car window mount.
- Nitrogen purging and O-ring seals provide water and fogproof performance in all environments. Rugged construction withstands recoil and impact.
- 【Updated Night Vision】Digital Night Vision Goggles embraces an infrared enhanced CMOS sensor and a 2.31inch LCD screen for its night vision capabilities, you can view the night vision in real time via screens far from the binocular, instead of a conventional night vision devices must be seen close to the eyes, causing eyes to be tired and dry.
- 【Powerful Perspective】High Quality Digital Night Vision Binoculars Provide 3X Optical Magnification & 850nm Infrared Illumination for Beginner & Advanced Explorers & Sportsmen | Enjoy Exciting Views While Camping, Hiking, Hunting, Bird Watching, Performing Surveillance, Watching Sporting Events & More.
- 【Large LCD Viewfinder】Digital Screen Features a Super Simple Interface with Indicators for Infrared Illuminator, Zoom Level & Current Battery Status. Perfect for a beginner who wants to be able to view his fields at night, or observe the wild animals and plants while camping.
- 【Built To Last 】Device Runs on 6 Standard AA Batteries for Affordable, Portable Convenience at Home & in the Field | Energy-Efficient Model Delivers Up to 6 Hours of Continuous Use During Day & Up to 3 Hours at Night on IR Setting | Stay Safely on Long Nature Hikes & Camping Trips.
- 【100% Satisfaction Warranty 】Arrives with All the Extra Accessories You Need to Comfortably Operate Your Night Goggles Straight Out the Box | Includes Carry Strap for Safety, Carry Case & Tripod Thread for Easy Mounting.
Binoculars under $200 Buyer’s Guide
A binocular is one of the most useful pieces of outdoor equipment. Since they are a little on the expensive side of the scale, it is always a good idea to know the things you are going to look for before purchase. Below $200 or above, this is always a good practice.
Magnification Power
Magnification power is the ability of the instrument to display the image as larger than what it is. Most prefer a magnification of about 6x to 10x. The magnification power is all dependent on your use. For example, in bird watching, higher the magnification the better. However, large magnification compromises field of vision and light quality.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens is the name given to the large lens which is in front of the binocular. This lens is a crucial part of the instrument as this is the place light first makes contact with in the binocular. A large lens is always better as it means more light enters the tube and enhances the image. The large lens also means more weight, so a good tripod and carry case will go a long way.
Lens Coating
Lens coating is an important aspect as it affects the final image quality. The lens is made of glass and will reflect some light; this reflected light disrupts the incoming light. A good lens coating will reduce reflection, improve image quality and reduce strain on your eyes.
Exit Pupil
Exit pupil is present on the user’s side of binocular. This part of the binocular is the part on which the final image is projected and then can be viewed by the user. A large and comfortable eyepiece can help you when it comes to prolonged viewing and it also reduces the strain on your eyes.
Field of View
Field of View or FoV refers to how much of the field is visible when viewed from the binoculars. It is generally depicted as degrees in the form of the diameter of a circle. A large field of view means you can view a larger picture from one single position. A small field of view can be uncomfortable as a lot of neck movement would be required to cover a large area.
Close Focus
Close focus is the term used for the minimum distance you would have to be from the observed object to be able to focus on it. As an unfocused image would defeat the purpose of a binocular, this is an important aspect. If you buy a binocular with a small close focus, the better you would be able to use it.
Visual Clarity
It goes without saying that since binoculars are an optical device, the quality of the projected image is of much importance. The visual clarity of the produced image can depend on many factors. Lens material, objective lens size, prism used, prism alignment, ambient light quality and many other factors could affect the light quality.
Low Light Performance
Low light performance, as the name suggests, is how well your binocular performs in low light conditions. In low light conditions, you need more light to enter the binocular for a better image. This can be achieved with a large objective lens. You can always go for night-vision binoculars.
Durability
Binocular is an outdoor tool. More specifically, it is an outdoor travelling tool. You are prone to dropping or banging it too hard. Before purchase, ask the seller what material the casing and lens is made of. Also, get a good water and terrain proof carry bag for better protection. Simultaneously, opt for an extended guarantee.
Overall Optical Quality
All the above-mentioned features and parts may function perfect separately, but it is also important to know whether they work well together or not. A large magnification may affect picture quality in low light and compact binoculars may have a small field of vision.
Additional features
Most of the important features are already mentioned above. Other things like company guarantee, quality of tripod and carry bag, prism used, etc. can also be looked into for better performance.
Conclusion
You need not spend a fortune to buy a pair of good binoculars. Many companies exist out there that use good and durable material to create optical products which can be purchased for as little as $200. The above article can be used as a purchasing guide for anyone who is in the market looking to buy a binocular at a fair price.
