8x42 vs 10x42 Binoculars - Which is Best?

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8x42 vs 10x42 Binoculars - Which is Best?

Рет қаралды 663,909

Күн бұрын

Size, weight, image quality, brightness, and price. In this video I go over the main differences that you can expect between typical 8x42 vs 10x42 binoculars of similar quality and thus no matter if your interest is general use, birding, wildlife observation or hunting, it will help you to decide which configuration is best for your particular needs and preferences.
➡️Full Article on BBR: 8x42 vs 10x42 Binoculars - Which is Best?
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➡️What Binocular Numbers Mean:
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➡️Exit Pupil - The Complete Guide
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Understanding these core distinctions between that of 8x42 vs 10x42 binoculars will enable you to then understand which option is more ideal for what or how you specifically use your binoculars.
Examples of the sections I cover:
Physical Differences: Size & Weight
Optical Differences
8x or 10x Magnification
The whole purpose of using a binocular that magnifies the image is to provide you with a better view of distant objects. So it stands to reason that most people will assume that the more powerful a binocular is, the better.... but there is more to this!
Light Gathering
As both 10x42 and 8x42 binoculars have 42mm objective lenses and assuming they use the same quality glass and coatings, the light-gathering ability between the two will be the same, however like the magnification, there is more to this story!
Price Differences - Did you know 10x42's are often more expensive than the equivalent 8x42 binocular?
Conclusions - 10x42 or 8x42, Which is the Best? I finish the video going over the main points and deciding which binocular is best in which circumstances.
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📒100% Honest, Real Reviews, Advice & Opinions📒
I would like to make it completely clear that like all the reviews and advice that I give on the BBR video channel and website, this is my honest and completely genuine opinion and I am in no way compensated to describe a binocular in a particular way or with a bias.
In other words, if I think a binocular or a feature on it is great, I will say so. If I think it is rubbish or it is weak in certain areas, I will also point them out.
Before writing and publishing any binocular review, I thoroughly research, test and use the instrument in my office as well as out in the field. I also conduct comprehensive comparisons between the binocular under review with a number of benchmark binoculars in both good and bad light conditions.
Whilst I make every effort not to, I do make the occasional error or am sometimes supplied with the wrong details. If you spot any mistakes, please feel free to contact me either in the comments section, via social media or on my site, so that I can rectify it/them.
As always, I love getting feedback and your opinions. it is these that help me improve and continue to supply you with content, advice, and reviews that you actually want to watch.

Пікірлер: 682

@castelatus 6 ай бұрын

I have a 10x42 binocular and an 8x42 binocular, both from the same brand and model, and I can say with absolute certainty that the 8x42 is the better one. It provides greater eye comfort, has a wider field of view, and the difference in magnification between them is not so noticeable.

@s.d.r1062 26 күн бұрын

So its not worth to buy both? 8x42 NL Pure AND 10x42? I have already 8x, but curious to 10x But i will use 8x the most

@TS-nq5qd 3 жыл бұрын

This video is by far the most comprehensive and easy to understand explanation on binoculars that I have seen.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Hi TS - Many thanks for the feedback and nice words - much appreciated!

@jasonf.4107 3 жыл бұрын

Years ago I bought my first “good” binoculars, a used pair of 8x42 Leicas at a birding store, after the two very nice and very knowledgeable ladies working behind the counter told me I would actually be able to see more with 8x binos than 10x. I’ve become a believer, and I’m still using those Leicas 20+ years later.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Jason - yes this is a good point. With binoculars especially it does pay to buy the best you can afford in the beginning as unlike electronic devices and digital cameras, they do go out of date and become redundant after a year or so...

@BIG_FETUS 3 жыл бұрын

@@Bestbinocularsreviews so right!

@CHAD-RYAN Жыл бұрын

Im about to go buy some used 10year old zeiss ht for $1300. Im hoping they are still perfect internally

@CHAD-RYAN Жыл бұрын

And hope they last me a lifetime.

@ValerieFire Жыл бұрын

@@CHAD-RYAN Did you buy them?

@AndreyRadonezhskiy 11 ай бұрын

Thanks for your English, easily understandable even for the foreign listeners.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 11 ай бұрын

You are welcome - and thanks for the feedback - much appreciated :-)

@zastomislisdaznas2483 7 ай бұрын

Finaly - a intelligent Man who knows how to show the performanses. Thank you.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 7 ай бұрын

You are welcome and many thanks for the kind words

@rodfisherino 2 жыл бұрын

Excellent explanation of the differences between 8x42 and 10x42. I was leaning towards purchasing the 10x42 simply because of the greater magnification, but now after watching your video, I think I will go with the 8x42 because they will fit my purposes much better. Thank you!

@YellowHatSims 2 жыл бұрын

I've been watching a few videos on binoculars and this was the one that helped me finally make my decision! I'm off to order my Barr & Stroud 8x42s.

@mr.arcticson4076 4 ай бұрын

Very good - the comment on watching with glasses made me chose 8x42 rather than 10x42.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 ай бұрын

Hi there - thanks for the comment and yes, 8x42 binoculars will often have more eye-relief than the 10x42 version, which usually makes them easier and better for eyeglass wearers. I am glad to know I helped you - all the best.

@aimeeday9293 7 ай бұрын

I love how all your videos are so well introduced! 'And we're going to start RIGHT NOW!'. Also the use of 'specific needs are requirements' and 'however'. For some reason this brings me so much joy. Anyway - thanks for your help - very informative across the channel in helping me choose my first premium binocs (vortex vipers 8 x 42).

@Bestbinocularsreviews 7 ай бұрын

Hello Aimee. Many thanks for your very kind words and your words of encouragement it really means a lot and it's awesome to know that I'm bringing someone so much joy just with these crazy videos! Anyway you're welcome in regards to me helping you find a pair of binoculars. the vortex viper 8x 42 I like and are a very good choice. I would really like to hear once you've had a chance to use them just how they turn out for you thanks again cheers Jason

@terribolan2010 4 жыл бұрын

Just watched your video. Just purchased an 8x42 for hubby for father's day. We like to have a pair for travel. I was worried about my choice. I went with the 8x42 because they seemed more compact than the 10x42. Glad to see many posts here that love their 8x42.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Terri thanks for the comment - an 8x42 will be the same size as the 10x42 from the same series ... 42 is the diameter of the lenses in millimetres and 8x or 10x is the magnification and has nothing to do with size.. I have a video you should watch: What the binocular numbers mean: www.bestbinocularsreviews.com/blog/binocular-numbers-mean-12/ There are also a bunch of 101 guides here that I suggest you take a look at: www.bestbinocularsreviews.com/guides/

@ICDedPeplArisen 3 жыл бұрын

I want to get some binoculars for my mother, who wants to view the mountain range visible from her living room. So far, I think a 8×42 might suit her better as she will have a harder time than most keeping the binoculars steady, so a lower magnification would still allow her to maintain focus on an area. She also plans on using them in low light conditions such as sunrise and sunset. Not sure if I will go for 42mm objective lenses, but I appreciate this informative video very much!

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Hi, thanks for the comment and kind words, much appreciated. I agree, an 8x would be better for someone with unsteady hands - you could go for a smaller more lightweight binocular, so something like an 8x32 (see ones I have reviewed here tinyurl.com/5ka5tw59 ) which would also be easier to handle, but would then reduce the low light capability.

@tonykemp4645 2 жыл бұрын

Get your mother a pair of bushnell 8x42 bonculars very good in low light I own a pair just amazing glass in any condition.

@m444ss 9 ай бұрын

Very helpful. Feeling much better about the purchase I just made. I just bought my wife some binos for Christmas, which she'll use to watch birds and other critters behind our house. I was going to get 10x42 but they were out of stock. I got the 8x42 (same brand/model). Now, I think she'll actually be happier with the binos I "settled for."

@Bestbinocularsreviews 8 ай бұрын

Hi, yes for around the house, I would usually go for an 8x over 10x as well. Have a Merry Christmas and do let us know how she likes her gift :-)

@m444ss 8 ай бұрын

She got the 8x42 and loves it. 8x42 turned out to be the perfect selection for her purposes. Again, thanks for the insightful review.

@gerrymarlowe5541 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks BBR man. I would have leant to 10x had I not done my research. Now I'm definitely going to 8x42. You were very clear with your info so I was happy to hit the like button and comment.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Gerry - Many thanks to you for the kind words and feedback - much appreciated

@nQuarter 4 жыл бұрын

I stopped to worry about my 8x42 choice, thank you!

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Pavel, you are most welcome - as I say in the video, for many users, a high magnification is less important than many of the other factors.

@SpeedNoodles Жыл бұрын

Now I feel like I need more than one pair as I am sometimes watching birds in the woods, and other times watching birds at a distance on large bodies of water! But, at least I now understand the differences. Thank you for your very easy-to-understand explanations!

@mikecurtis1111 Жыл бұрын

I have both a 8x42 and 10x42. You're not going to see any appreciable increase in bird detail at a distance with 10x binos than you're seeing with 8x. Yes, the birds will be ever so slightly bigger in the 10x, but it will only be noticeable if you look through the 8x and 10x back to back. If you're frequently looking at shore birds or birds at a distance, you're gonna want to consider a spotting scope to pair with your 8x binos

@bernabemachadoferre4537 Ай бұрын

Hola! -Como dice Kenny (gracias a el por este gran video) considere que si vd observa con buena luz, los 10x40 son buenos. -Si vd tiene buen pulso, los 10x40 son buenos -Si además observa a media distancia los 10x40 son buenos. -Pero si va por zonas cerradas, de poca luz, o le tiembla el pulso los 8x40 son buenos. Dudo sea interesante tener dos herramientas bastante parecidas. Mejor disponer este dinero en un solo aparato que vd se siente mejor

@s.d.r1062 26 күн бұрын

@@mikecurtis1111 I was considering to buy an 10x , but i already have a very good Swaro NL Pure 8x42. Its not worth to get an extra 10 power like 10x32 or 10x42?

@lmtada 4 жыл бұрын

Running Leica 8x42 for 20 years. Was a good purchase. Good quality, and rugged. Pass them on to a family member when I am gone.

@lisajohnson5516 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for helping me to decide. After almost making a spontaneous in-store purchase from someone who didn't know anything about lenses but let us try half a dozen pairs that really didn't work for us, your video steered me to a different store with the right choice. Thank you for explaining the broader field of view - that's what I want. Also the low light conditions. The moment I tried them I knew they were perfect! My son and I have very different facial (his eyes are wider set, the bridge of his nose broader and flatter than mine) and focal (he's nearsighted and I'm far-sighted) structures, but we were both able to say "wow, these are the ones". Looking forward to wildlife (and maybe even Jupiter! ) with our new Nikon Prostaff 7S 8 x 42s :) Someday I'll buy that $2000 telescope I really want, hahaha. But these come in way under budget and with 2 very happy customers. Thank you.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Lisa, Welcome to the world of binoculars - I am really glad to have been able to help also many thanks for the feedback and kind words it is very much appreciated.

@kennethpeel7732 2 жыл бұрын

Hi , I have got 2 pairs, an 8x25 and a 10x42 bushnell waterproof h2o, I use the Minolta 8x25 when out walking, but live using the 10x42 when on the north east coast of Great Britain , as you say, very crisp and clear, had both pairs for years, and still very nice to use, lovely video and very clear and informative, even for a veteran birder, keep it up, Kenny

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Kenneth, Many thanks for the feedback and kind words, much appreciated - a compact 8x25 with a full size 10x42 is a great combination to have and as you say will cover most needs and uses perfectly.

@bıçak_knife_messer_tool Жыл бұрын

*My Favorite Binoculars:Bushnell Engage EDX,Celestron Regal ED,Celestron TrailSeeker ED,Athlon Midas G2 UHD,Hawke Frontier APO,Kowa BD-II XD,Nikon Monarch M7 ED And Olympus Pro ED*

@JeanPaul-Godtier 3 жыл бұрын

Not only your explanations are very informative and synthetic, but as a non-English native speaker I also appreciate your very clear diction.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the feedback and kind words, it is much appreciated.

@JeanPaul-Godtier 3 жыл бұрын

@@Bestbinocularsreviews You're welcome. May i ask a question about a binocular choice ? I'm doing a lot of outdoor camping and fishing, hiking, and long distance bicycle trip. I found myself interested in wildife, especially birds, so i wanted to purchase my first binoculars. After reading a lot of information, I have chosen to buy the "Nikkon prostaff 7s" but i'm hesitating a lot between the "8x42" and the compact "8x30" wich is lighter (-230g) and smaller. Do you think there is a big difference between the two in terms of image quality between the two ? Thank you !

@MuvoTX 4 жыл бұрын

Great video, I agree with most of it. My preference is a leupold bx-4 8x42, but I also have an old Otsuka japan 7x35 porro that I use too. Pros and cons to both. One thing not mentioned is wind. I find for windy conditions image stability can be difficult, so my preference is for 8x and 7x. The other thing is thermal heat waves and smog/hazy conditions over long range landscapes. I have found increased magnification of a hazy or thermal blurry image less desirable. So again 8-7x is my preference.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

You make some excellent points and whilst often very minor, you are right, the weather (other than light) can have a bearing on which binoculars would be best under those conditions

@Bobbr3 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your insight. Your clear explanation of facts wasn't colored by personal opinion. Sharing quantifiable information and inviting the viewer to decide what would be best for them is a fabulous approach! I appreciate your excellent production values that enhanced the presentation. Kudos to you!

@Robert-jt6eo 4 жыл бұрын

While this video has been out since Oct of 2019 I have only recently viewed it. Everything you said is spot on. I have my trusty 8x42 Vortex for yrs and wanted to upgrade. I jumped right out and bought 12x50, WOW, what a mistake. Everything you said about the differences is very accurate. The 12x50 were surprisingly difficult to control the shaking. I got lucky that the dealer I bought the 12x50 from agreed to exchange the 12x50 for 8x42 even after the 30 day exchange window had passed. The new 8x42 will do what I am looking for and they are of better quality and yes more money. I don't have them as of this writing, they are in the mail as they say. I love my first set of 8x42 Vortex so after speaking with the sales person about what I wanted to achieve, I am sure I bought the right binocular, with the improvements I was looking for. Keep making these videos, You do speak the truth!

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Robert, Many thanks for the kind words and great feedback. Yes it is true, for most general use, something like an 8x42 is ideal. I personally can hold a 12x50 still for short periods, but everyone is different and even so, there is little doubt that high powered binoculars are best used with a tripod in-order to appreciate the extra detail. All the best and please let us know how you get on with the 8x42 - which series did you choose?

@josephvalentine7 4 жыл бұрын

Wht your intro is all about (Oct 2019)

@antontomenko3124 3 жыл бұрын

My opinion 10х42 The best! . With love from Ukraine. Thank you.

@bernabemachadoferre4537 Ай бұрын

Disfrute de su afición en paz y felicidad próxima

@jornharaldandersen5880 6 күн бұрын

I use both 10x42 and 8x42 and prefer all the advantages of the 8x42 mentioned, as well as a deeper sharpness range (less blurry background)

@Rockoholic8 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for such a helpful video !!! I've recently started birdwatching and was tempted to buy a pair of Adasion 12x42 as it was on sale. After watching reading guides and seeing this video, I'm relieved I didn't rush and buy it.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Hi, thanks for the feedback and am glad to have helped. Yes, for most birding an 8x42 is a good option. For long-range and out in the open, like fields, at the coast, or other waterfronts a 10x42 can be better. For very long range, you could go for a 12x, but I would then also suggest getting a pair with larger objectives (like 50mm) to make sure you still get a decent low light performance. If you are interested here are some 12x50 binocular reviews on BBR: snip.ly/upg9i5

@d10dozerman2 3 жыл бұрын

Excellent content. Learned a few things in my old age.

@ramboj7924 3 жыл бұрын

i do think 8x is the best all rounder, sometimes i find 10x too narrow and i know there are wider FOV in 10x than the ones i used but there is also the shaky image thats very noticeable when increasing magnification

@johnl7131 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much. I was trying to make this exact decision on 8x42 vs 10x42.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Hi John, glad to help and thanks for saying thanks 👍😊

@juanarbelaez3531 3 жыл бұрын

What did you do finally???

@patricj951 2 жыл бұрын

Good video! I agree about that 8x42 is a better allround choice. Wider FOV, brighter image in low light, less shaky image and easier eye placement. 10x42 is more of a special task choice.

@ratherbefishing4225 Жыл бұрын

Been using 10x42 Zeiss for years but broke them, just got a new pair of Athlon 8x42s. Primary use is hunting and especially important to have good light transmission during dawn and dusk. Haven’t tested them much yet but they seem really good. My dad has used a pair of 7x42s for decades and they are wonderful for hunting.

@Bestbinocularsreviews Жыл бұрын

Hi - thanks for the comment and update, much appreciated. I too love the 7x42 configuration, sadly is quite rare to find these days.

@ronaldjohnson1474 10 ай бұрын

I still use my Chinon 7x50 binos. Yeah, they're large and heavy, but, they always help me find the objects I'm looking for.

@ArcticGator 4 жыл бұрын

for general purpose my go to is a tasco sierra essentials 10x42, that range is ther best balance i have seen between power and keeping them steady, i have a compact pair of bushnell 8x42s that i use when i do shed or mushroom hunting, very handy! i also love the twist up eyecups since i just got glasses and they are now a must have on any binos i get, i used to have a pair of 12x50 in the that same set but i let a friend borrow it and it was returned broken in half after, apparently being stepped on, haven't been able to find a pair of those anywhere!

@ruthbaker5281 2 жыл бұрын

Very useful information. I’ve actually got a pair of each. I’m a birder with a pair of each. Now I can decide which to use based on the situation. 8x for woods birding, 10x for waterfowl at beaches and marshes. Thanks.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Ruth, thanks for the comment and feedback and really glad to be of help.

@douglasstemke2444 Жыл бұрын

As an eyeglass user and one who birds a lot I look for 10x42 that offer a lot of eye relief, typically more than 20mm. I currently own Pentax with a 21mm eye relief and really love these binoculars which are not inexpensive but less than half the cost of truly high end binoculars like Leica

@Bestbinocularsreviews Жыл бұрын

Yes, 21mm is good. I find 18mm is often enough, but it will depend on the shape of your face and the glasses you wear and how you wear them

@megastick9324 2 жыл бұрын

I actually have one of each, 8x and 10x. And, depending on what I’m going to be looking at/for, choose between. If I’m hunting and need to see far out, I use a spotting scope. I used to try big, bulky , multi power binos to do it all, it was a big fail.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Hi yes, I agree with you - having both an 8x and 10x binocular is ideal and as you say, for most uses MUCH better than having most Zoom or variable magnification binoculars that in almost all cases cant match the quality or performance of a fixed focus binocular (see why here: www.bestbinocularsreviews.com/zoom-binoculars.php ) . However, not everyone can afford or indeed may want to have two binoculars, and thus a choice has to be made.

@s.d.r1062 26 күн бұрын

Is it worth to have both? 8x42 NL Pure AND 10x42? or not so much difference? I have already 8x, but curious to 10x But i will use 8x the most

@joe909 4 жыл бұрын

That was one of the best explanatory videos I've seen on KZfaq - clearly explained, well informed, and helpful. You have a new (grateful) subscriber.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Keith, many thanks for the feedback and kind words, it is much appreciated

@robertcook2572 4 жыл бұрын

There MUST be a reason why 8x40s are still made by every manufacturer. Every fibre of one's being says that 10 has simply got to be better than 8, right? However...

@135Ops 2 жыл бұрын

@@robertcook2572 I can only assume you made that comment before watching the video?

@2hands_and_a_brain917 3 жыл бұрын

I knew all of this , but decided to watch your clip anyway. I am in the market and wanted to be sure that I wasn't overlooking anything, but I am now confident that my decision on what to buy will be the best one I can make. Thank you , very well done!

@Yenko1992 3 жыл бұрын

I've watched a lot of videos on binoculars and this is got to be the best!

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Scott, once again many thanks for the feedback and kind words.

@richardcontinijr9661 4 жыл бұрын

I'm a hunter and I do most of my hunting at early dawn and late dusk. My personal choice is a pair of Nikon Monarch 7×50. They cost me $120. I find the exit pupil to be very good and it has a nice field of view. There very good in low light conditions and it's all the magnification I need. The down side is they are big and heavy but for the price and performance I can't really complain.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

I really do like the 7x50 configuration as well - for both terrestrial uses and looking at the stars, one of my favorites and you are right, with such a large exit pupil, you don't HAVE to spend tons of money as it can makes up for lower quality glass and coatings: www.bestbinocularsreviews.com/blog/7x50-binoculars-for-astronomy-04/

@wouterke9871 2 жыл бұрын

Thats true, but most when you have a full dilating pupil of 7mm. When you get older, and you pupils flex less, 8x42 is equally effective with dark adapted eyes.

@johnregan3591 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for explaining this very clearly, I've just ordered a secondhand compact pair of leica 8x20 to keep in my pocket when out walking. 👍

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Hi, Glad it was helpful and many thanks for the feedback - it is much appreciated. Please let me know how you go with your new purchase once you have had some time to use them.

@johnregan3591 3 жыл бұрын

@@Bestbinocularsreviews Sadly those Lieca 8x20s never turned up. Thankfully I managed to get my money back as I got them through Amazon. I don't think the company actually ever had them in the first place as they kept putting off sending them out. I have tried/borrowed a pair since and for the size they are excellent

@synappticuser5669 3 жыл бұрын

I am not a newbie and it was a delight to follow your clear and concise language and explanation. Been fascinated by optics since childhood and would you credt it? I was Reg'd blind at 45. No matter, Retinitis Pigmentosa or tunnel vision to the layman. I have optics for all seasons, small monoculars for railway station/airports information boards going to 8x30 monocular for weight saving or my 8x30 binos if not. I have 8x42's and 10x50's. I go on the hill or around the coast using the old 3 legged stool and a photographers monopod as a walking pole and at stop times I attach my binos. No longer young this makes a serious difference to hand shake and I can sit, take my ease and look for birds and wildlife. Best Wishes, McIntyre, Scotland.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Hi - many thanks for the feedback and kind words, much appreciated

@ZaberAnsaryOfficial 3 жыл бұрын

Great. Ordered my first pair of Binoculars. 10x42.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Zaber, that is Excellent, welcome to the world of Binoculars! Let me know what you got and how you find using them after you have had some time with them

@markcarroll9943 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the high quality videos and reviews . As a glass fetishist of 35 yrs[photographer] I’m loving you’re binocular material. Cheers mark Australia

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Mark, you are most welcome and many thanks for the kind words, they are much appreciated 👍

@psiquiatradr.ocampofonseca6923 11 ай бұрын

i'm shaky, you solved my doubt quite fast, thank you very much

@Bestbinocularsreviews 11 ай бұрын

Happy to help and thanks for the feedback - much appreciated :-)

@daveyseel7533 2 жыл бұрын

I'm thinking of getting into birdwatching and your review was first class thanks. I wasn't sure what the magnification numbers meant for the field of vision. So i was very unsure which magnification would be best for me so your review helped a great deal with the details you went into so it has made my choice far easier I'll opt for the 8×42 binoculars. Thanks 👍

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Dave, you are welcome, glad to help - yes 8x42 is generally considered better for most short to mid range birding and thanks for the kind words.

@subdvr 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Jason. Ive been trawling the net trying to decide what to buy in either 10x42, 10x50, price and quality. Great video, very helpful.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Ho Trev, glad to help and many thanks for the feedback - much appreciated.

@woodenrat4579 4 жыл бұрын

I use my binoculars for star gazing and looking at the moon when I'm too lazy to set up my telescope I also use them for animal observation

@ahmedsohail67 4 жыл бұрын

Hey gus, whenny you see moon what you use 10/42 or 8/42, what is good for moon and stars watching

@DanielBoychuk 3 жыл бұрын

@@ahmedsohail67 neither. 7 or 8 x by 50mm. You need larger lenses. If you can tripod them go up to 15 or 20 x 70 mm or 80mm

@Ajajambo 4 жыл бұрын

Excellent comparison! My goto is a 10x42 Bushnell Engage excellent all purpose binos. I can comfortably hold a 15x70 for astronomy so the 10x is my choice all day.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

The Engage series from Bushnell looks to be really good. How do you find them optically? Unfortunately I have not been able to test them as I have never had a reply back from Bushnell :-(

@Ajajambo 4 жыл бұрын

@@Bestbinocularsreviews hey Jason optically they are very good optics, color accuracy is spot on, sharp from the centre to about 85% and the same goes vertically. My favourite thing about them is size and comfort. They also had decent eye relief. Optically I cannot fault them on par with my vortex viper HD 8x42 but better FOV and ER.

@sirmalus5153 Жыл бұрын

I use a combination of Opticron Discovery WP PC 10x50, plus Opticron Discovery WP PC 8x42, plus Celestron Granite 8x42 bino's. A good range of prices from around £180 - £200 for the Opticrons (depending on size and current pricing) and about £300 when purhased for the Celestron Granite (which have gone up in price since purchase about 4 years ago) The Opticrons are very good quality indeed when compared too the Celestron Granite and I would say the better bargain, as they can cost up to half the price of the Celestron. The Opticron 8x42 is very good for close up bird watching, but looses out a little for longer distance viewing of details too the bigger 10x50 model, as you would expect of course. The Opticron 10x50 is a narrower field of view to both of the other bino's (a little) but not in a major way that is as obvious as you might imagine. You gain with the 10x power over the 8x power, but loose a little even with the 50mm aperture. Again, just as you would expect. If I had to choose only one set of bino's however, I would go for the 10x50 Opticron's. This would be down to their higher power for longer distances (rambling and general use etc) and their very good performance optically (a real bargain at their current price of around £200) plus they work well for short distance aswell, especially if you are looking at a small target that doesn't move around with big movements anyway. Like a bird feeding in (mostly) one spot. Or maybe birds feeding off a seed feeder, so the target position is basically fixed anyway. Given a choice of TWO bino's, the Celestron Granite's take some beating for quality of the optics and build, but the Opticron 8x42 give it a very, VERY good run for the money, especially as one is half the price of the other. I would be very happy with both Opticrons only, if I hadn't bought the Celestron bino first. Indeed, I bought the Opticron 8x42 as a second bino, so as not to possibly damage the much more expensive Celestron Granite while travelling, imagine my surprise when I found out how good the Opticron 8x42 bino was on first try. I bought the 10x50 Opticron for that little further reach to see things that bit further away. while the image quality is the same as the smaller 8x power version (both are excellent) and is my 'go-to' for most things now.

@gregkyser1815 22 күн бұрын

I really enjoyed your expertise and clear concise explanations! I look forward to more of your content.

@54pjs 24 күн бұрын

Nice to have both 8x and 10x I own 8x42 10x36 10x50 12x50 and 7x50wide. 8x42 my favorite for wildlife birding.12x50 harder to hold steady but great long distance views with tripod or 15x70 for astronomy

@Bestbinocularsreviews 24 күн бұрын

Hi Yes, having both is ideal, I agree, but not for everyone - It just depends on how much you want to spend and how often you use your binoculars - so most people probablu only want one instrument - in which case it is very important to get the best configuration for your specific needs / preferences.

@54pjs 23 күн бұрын

@@Bestbinocularsreviews Agree and the 8x42 is the SWEET spot INHO A do it all Binocular. Even a 10x for steady hands?

@ladeteg 2 жыл бұрын

Excellent presentation and made a confusing topic to the novice easy to understand.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful and many thanks for the feedback - much appreciated

@govtfunded 4 жыл бұрын

How do you not have 100k subscribers? Amazing content, thank you!

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

I wish! Maybe one day > thanks for the kind words, certainly helps in regards to giving me the motivation to keep trying 👍

@kh2140 Жыл бұрын

That's interesting how binoculars work. I have an 8x25 monocular because I like how more compact it is than binoculars. My grandfather had a 35X70 binoculars, and they are huge.

@Bestbinocularsreviews Жыл бұрын

70mm binoculars are very big and usually very heavy, plus the 35x magnification is massive - to get the best out of those you really do need to have them mounted onto a tripod. For more on this and why, check out my guide to high power, long range binoculars: www.bestbinocularsreviews.com/high-powered-long-distance-viewing-binoculars.php as well as my guide to tripods for binoculars: www.bestbinocularsreviews.com/binocular-accessories.php

@marksandison3642 3 жыл бұрын

Really useful thanks very much. I am now going to buy the 8 x 42

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Mark - you are welcome and thanks for the feedback, much appreciated - Enjoy your new bins and let me know how it goes.

@twenty4seven368 2 жыл бұрын

Went to Cabellas to try 8x42 and 10x42 of the same model. Walked away with 8x42 because I wear prescription glasses and 8x42 had less strain on my eyes. I had a better experience with 8x42.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Yes, a lower magnification does usually make for a more relaxed experience and thus easier on your eyes, even for those who don't use glasses.

@goldog2816 2 жыл бұрын

Good video but I feel you left out one very important factor , Eye Fatigue , the higher magnification will produce more eye fatigue , I have several pairs and in different powers but for everyday use and my leave on the seat of my truck I prefer a High Definition 8 power, I like a higher power for short intervals for a closer look but that's all, give me my 8's if I'm going to be looking through them for any period of time ..........

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Great point! Yes you are right, there is no doubt that a lower powered binocular is far more relaxing on the eyes to use than a high powered one. I think this is partly/mostly to do with the increased image shake you get with higher magnifications and your brain & eyes trying to compensate for it. Mounting your binoculars onto something like a tripod does help with this, but not always practical.

@goldog2816 2 жыл бұрын

@@Bestbinocularsreviews Yes totally agree, thanks for the reply .........

@jornharaldandersen5880 6 күн бұрын

And greater depth of sharpness on the 8x42 helps too, less intense focusing and less blurry surroundings.

@johncruz7895 2 жыл бұрын

Great review. Covered most, if not all the questions I have on the subject. Thanks.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Hi John, Many thanks for the feedback and really glad to be of help.

@MattH-wg7ou 3 жыл бұрын

What a dang near flawless summary/intro to bin basics!

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback and kind words - much appreciated

@minnoxdnb Ай бұрын

i got a 10x42 nikon P3 for the baltic sea recently. so that was the right choice then, thanks!

@Bestbinocularsreviews 24 күн бұрын

You are welcome, thanks for the comment and feedback

@seetheforest 3 жыл бұрын

Great video you covered a lot of my questions and explained everything very well. I got a pair of cheap 70 mm binos with a 12 to 60 zoom. The zoom is a challenge because it changes the focus and I find the need to refocus both eyes each time. So you need to set the zoom and focus and leave it there. You can't zoom in effectively and get focused and you need a concrete or cast iron base to mount the thing on to reduce shake. I'm looking for a machine stand from a drill press maybe..

@etxeberre1 4 жыл бұрын

All birders in Ecuador used 8x42. Celestron have great affordables options for this niche. You could also invest on a harnas, it makes a huge difference when birding on the forest👌

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Yes, 8x42's are generally considered ideal for birders and yes a bino harness can help - comfort and free up your hands: Binocular Harness Guide www.bestbinocularsreviews.com/binocular-harness.php

@Entertainment-sq6wx Ай бұрын

Very good explanation. And everything summarised in a concise manner.

@Bestbinocularsreviews Ай бұрын

Thank you very much for your kind words

@trickystravels 3 жыл бұрын

Great videos. My problem is that I am in the forest area and the coast! Ideally I need 3 pairs. 8x32 for hiking and travel, 8x42 and I want the 10x42 for the coast. Would also use them for stargazing!

@oreopuppydawg1564 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks! Was going to buy 10’s but now 8’s.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Hi thanks for the feedback - glad yo have helped

@ksull72487 4 жыл бұрын

First Pair or General Purpose. 8x all the way. The field of view will be important you’ll get used to targeting objects easily especially if it’s a bird. If your buying compacts 8x. Boating 8x. Mariners actually use 8 or less. When things start moving it’s field of view. So starting with 8x is usually safer if your unsure. 10x is kinda the standard but that’s changed so much. The 8x lens although is more of your general purpose all around lens. Anything 10 or more you start narrowing down its uses but increasing the magnification. Compacts will suffer from lower light conditions as you’ll see 8x21 and 8x25 vs 10x25 meaning the exit Pupil Diameter will be much less than 3mm in some cases. So in that case the lower Magnification may be more appreciated in low light on a compact. A compact isn’t really all that useful at higher magnifications anyways. You ever hand a person a pair of binoculars and they say I can’t see anything. It’s usually due to the fact they don’t use them and can’t target objects easily. Then you point and you turn them and say it’s right their and then the moments gone. 🤣. This is where 8x will come in handy as well vs the 10x. Having the detail is great especially if your somebody who knows how to use binoculars. It’s going to miserable for the person that doesn’t. So going with an 8x can be that much more helpful. Theirs a purpose for all of them but in general that’s my opinion. Their are other sizes as well. But as he said anything more than 10x tripod. Anything less than 8x you may have shakey hands or it’s a baseball game. The 8x vs 10x battle. Some companies actually make a 9x due to the debate.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Kristopher. Many thanks for the feedback and your excellent observations and I 100% agree with you, those new to binoculars should if possible keep the magnification to a minimum and is one of the main points I bang on BBR. eg: Avoid These Biggest Mistakes Newbies Make When Choosing Binoculars www.bestbinocularsreviews.com/blog/biggest-mistakes-newbies-make-when-choosing-binoculars-02/

@brucekent7442 3 жыл бұрын

thank You so much. I am new to all this and this is the third time I have watched your video and things are very clear to me now.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Bruce, many thanks for the kind words and feed back and I am really glad to have been of help. All the best.

@jornharaldandersen5880 6 күн бұрын

You missed one important factor: Depth of view.... the 8x42 provide more depth and less blurry backround. Hence, it is easier to focus using an 8x42.

@alanduncan-brown7328 11 ай бұрын

Great review and unbiased commentary-I’m keen on whale watching from my balcony so will most probably go for a 10x50 magnification. Another Saffer

@Bestbinocularsreviews 11 ай бұрын

Howzit! Many thanks for the comment and feedback - much appreciated :-)

@CasperLabuschagne 3 жыл бұрын

Explained a lot of things I was not aware of. Now I know why I feel nauseous using high-powered binoculars.

@kswsquared 2 жыл бұрын

Been birding in tropical jungle conditions for a couple of months now. I've had it good with a 10x42 so far. Not as wide a field of view as an 8x42, but I can manage well enough for the combination of low light understory and tracking small birds that are closer up, like Flowerpeckers, and then looking at a pair of hornbills on some taller treetops that are farther, or a raptor gliding midair. The extra 2x difference does make up the distance that you can't pull in as much with an 8x. That being said though, I have also gone ahead and gotten an angled spotting scope with 25x to cover much farther birds.

@dafydddavies9256 2 жыл бұрын

Excellent explanation for someone who knew nothing about the difference between the 8x42 and 10x42. Your final conclusion was also very informative as it gave examples of who would use each one. As a hiker you made my mind up which one. (yes the 10x42) WELL DONE

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Dafydd - glad to be of help and thanks very much for the feedback - much appreciated.

@jupiterashtar3040 Жыл бұрын

It's not as easy as it sounds. I have a 8x25 which is brighter than my other 10x50. Everything depends on how good is the glass and coating. Also i have a 10x42 that gives a more steady image than my 8x25. The 10x42 gives a wider view.

@coolauntiejoyce 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this detailed primer on these two popular binocular sizes. I’m looking to purchase my first pair for an Alaska cruise next year and decided that the 10x42 would best for the mid to long range viewing from the ship. Great, informative work!

@Frank-uf2vn 4 жыл бұрын

I have a pair of Vortex 8x42 Crossfire HD that I use for squirrel hunting, because that is basically (but not always) their purpose I didn't want to go with the 10x42 because if the shake factor. And have had no issues with them the few times I have used them outside of squirrel hunting, actually was using them to glass some bald eagles in the area around 300 yards off and as long as I held them against a tree they worked perfectly fine....great info that's!

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Frank - many thanks for the feedback - as I say an 8x42 is probably the most versatile and for many users the right choice.

@A10TOES 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for explaining to where I could understand, just wanting to watch birds from my backyard.

@nanguameimei5396 Жыл бұрын

Best explanation of binoculars I've ever seen or heard. Thank you.

@Bestbinocularsreviews Жыл бұрын

Wow, thanks for the very kind words - glad to be of help!

@Kpapa91 3 жыл бұрын

I'm shopping for binoculars for the first time and this was very helpful, thank you!

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful and many thanks for the feedback - much appreciated

@pitersanok5179 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you, your video really helped me to finally ensure which binocular would fit my needs best. Before watching it, I've been quite a lot confused.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback and glad to have been able to help. Love to know which binoculars you have chosen?

@pitersanok5179 4 жыл бұрын

@@Bestbinocularsreviews Decided to buy 8x40, because usually I'm gonna use binocular into the woods and hilly terrain to admire landscapes, also during sunset sometimes. Not often on vast and open spaces. I think I'll probably go for Nikon Action EX. Regards!

@ft6755 4 жыл бұрын

Great video mate thanks, I'm going to go with the 8x42!

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Your welcome, glad to have been a little help. Do you have any ideas as to which 8x42 binocular you are going to go for?

@ft6755 4 жыл бұрын

@@Bestbinocularsreviews I'm thinking of going with the Nikon Prostaff 3S 8x42 as that has good reviews.

@NicoMouissie 3 жыл бұрын

Brilliant video, very clear explanations and helped decide on getting 8x42 🙌🏻

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Nico, many thanks for the feedback and kind words, much appreciated - sorry for the late response - I have been a ill recently - Hope your 8x42's worked out for you - what did you end up getting?

@boogerdude 4 жыл бұрын

You are really a good instructor. Thanks so much.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks very much for the kind words.. they are much appreciated

@Robin6512 3 жыл бұрын

I use a Steiner 8x42 for years and very happy with it.

@neilgibbs1973 Жыл бұрын

Great review which helped me get the best alternative for watching cricket .Many thanks

@ahmedsohail67 4 жыл бұрын

Best video on bynacular ever, love from India

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Many thanks for the kind words, much appreciated👍😀

@mikemacdonald3379 3 жыл бұрын

Excellent review. Cleared up a lot of my questions....

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks very much for the feedback and kind words. Much appreciated 👍 😊

@paulmacintosh8519 3 жыл бұрын

this video has really helped me with my choice of bino thank you

@rupertmcnaughtdavis3649 2 жыл бұрын

Cleared it up for me, thanks Jason.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Rupert, you're welcome! and thanks for letting me know, much appreciated.

@Eindkaas Ай бұрын

OK this helped me decide to go for 8x! Now I still need to choose between the Hawke Endurance ED 8x42 mono or the Vortex Solo 8x36 mono, as a compact hiking/camping tool 😅

@gmoutdoorsandmore7731 4 жыл бұрын

Nice video! You explain things very well. comparisons that I had never considered, Thanks!

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Hi, glad to hear it helped and many thanks for the feedback, it is much appreciated.

@cutjack242 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks. Made my decision a lot easier.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

You are welcome and than you for the kind words & feedback.

@byronbrimstone5163 Жыл бұрын

If you're a hunter and not extreme long range, 8X42 is the best and one with quality HD lenses will suffice. You get the broadest field of view within non-extreme shooting ranges, you can still see really far with it and you won't cry a river if you damage- or loose it, as you probably would if you loose a classy ED-unit at 2-3X the cost. That easily happens when hunting - especially in rugged terrain. Meopta has a fantastic 8X42 with flouride-HD lenses, the Optika HD. Perhaps review it? I think it's the absolute top in the price bracket (but I would still cry, if I lost it!). The Leupold BX-2 Alpine is also a very good candidate. Bird-watching? Get an ED unit for that final accuracy in the representation of the observed and a 10X42 to get a bit closer to the little fella too. Of course, if budget is not an issue, ED is the superior choice in all use cases.

@MangoMike316 4 жыл бұрын

I couldn't decide so I bought both! Great video.👍

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Good choice!!!! 😜and thanks for the kind words - much appreciated 👍

@valdosouto 4 жыл бұрын

Many thanks fr Rio 🇧🇷 Brazil,for your great information.

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks very much for the feedback and your kind words, it is really appreciated 👍

@MS-vl3im 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for explaining! I learnt something new today!

@Bestbinocularsreviews 4 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! and thanks for saying thanks! Much appreciated 😜👍

@federicocarlosstempelshern3135 3 жыл бұрын

Clear and lucid information.

@renzbayaga2013 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, now I have idea what to buy on my upcoming safari. I don't know nothing about binoculars, now I know. Thanks.

@laurensaunders9521 3 жыл бұрын

Great video! Thank you! But I kept switching my mind as you talked :-) Going on safari and I wear glasses, so I think 8x42?

@Bestbinocularsreviews 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Lauren, thanks for the kind words, much appreciated. Yes, an 8x42 is generally a good option for many uses, and whilst not the most compact option for travel, once on safari it will be perfect. In general, yes, an 8x42 will often have more eye-relief than the 10x42 version - just make sure the model you do choose has plenty of eye-relief s some 8x42's will be poor in this area- for more here is my guide to Long Eye Relief Binoculars www.bestbinocularsreviews.com/long-eye-relief-binoculars.php - In general, I find 15mm to be enough .. for me - but this will depend on the shape of your face and glasses, so to be safe 17mm or more is a number to aim for.