The Best 8x42 Binoculars Of 2024: Buying Guides

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Best 8x42 Binoculars
Best 8x42 Binoculars

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 8x42 Binoculars

This Vortex Diamondback 8 x 42 binocular is a high-performance binocular designed for rugged use and exceptional image quality. The Diamondback HD binoculars feature fully multi-coated lenses, durable all-metal body with non-slip rubber armor, and a front objective lens coating that minimizes reflections. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Roof Prism Binocular

This 8x42mm prism roof prism binocular is as fogproof and shockproof as they come. The rubber armor on the outside protects the lenses, while the soft texture grip absorbs shock and provides a firm grip. The large center focus knob makes it easy to adjust for your vision, and the twist up eye cups get you in the perfect position for viewing. Read Review

3. Best Capacity: Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 8x42 Binoculars

With a rugged and compact design, the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 8x42 Binoculars are great for hunting or other outdoor pursuits! Fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. The roof prism design is valued for greater durability and a more compact size, while the rubber armored housing is rugged and waterproof. Read Review

4. Best Compatible: Celestron – Nature DX 8x42 Binoculars – Outdoor and Birding Binocular

These Nature DX 8x42 Binoculars boast a full range of specs with impressive quality: Fully multi-coated lenses for bright images with more contrast, phase-coated BaK-4 prisms, and 8x magnification power. This nature lover's tool also boasts an impressive 6.5 foot close focus for detailed birding in the wild. Read Review

When it comes to outdoor activities, like bird watching or hunting, having a pair of binoculars on hand can be invaluable. They allow you to see hidden details and examine distant objects in greater detail than you could with just your naked eye. Binoculars are also handy for exploring from a distance.

You can get an even better view of an object or spot something you missed from a closer vantage point than by simply using your unaided naked eye. This is why we have reviewed the best 8x42 binoculars below. Here we will explain what binoculars are, why you should consider investing in some and which ones are the best for your needs.

We think the product that comes highly recommended for best 8x42 binoculars is Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 8x42 Binoculars. In case you need more alternatives and more in-depth guidance, you may explore the following.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 8x42 Binoculars
Our Score:
9.7
Vortex
  • 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.
  • 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 fogproof performance in all environments. Rugged construction withstands recoil and impact. Includes GlassPak harness.
  • 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.
  • 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.
TOP Choice #2 Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Roof Prism Binocular
Our Score:
9.6
Bushnell
  • Large center focus knob for easy adjustments; Twist up eye cups; Limited lifetime warranty
  • Quality optics with stunning HD clarity
  • BaK 4 prisms and multi coated optics offer crisp, clear images with improved light transmission
  • Beautiful blue color design and durability built to last
  • 100 percentage quality materials used and tested extensively
  • 100 percent waterproof, O ring sealed and nitrogen purged for reliable, fog free performance
  • Nonslip rubber armor and Soft Texture Grip absorb shock and provides a firm grip
  • 8x magnification and 42 millimeter objective diameter; 12 foot close focus distance; 17 millimeter eye relief
TOP Choice #3 Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 8x42 Binoculars
Our Score:
9.4
Vortex
  • Nitrogen purging and o-ring seals provide water and fogproof performance in all environments. Rugged construction withstands recoil and impact.
  • 8x 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • All you need is included: Take this Binocular with you anywhere. We’ve included a compact carrying case, objective lens caps, an eyepiece rainguard, a neck strap, a lens cloth, and an instruction manual for easy use on the go
  • Top-rated glass optics with impressive specs: Fully multi-coated lenses for brighter images, more contrast and highest resolution with phase-coated BaK-4 prisms, 8x magnification power, and 6.5-foot close focus
  • Perfect binoculars for every adventure: A great match for everyone from beginners to mid-range outdoors and birding enthusiasts. The perfect combination of Premium build, portability, and price
  • Robust, waterproof mid-sized body: Incredibly precise build and design that offers protection from outdoor elements. Features a waterproof/fogproof, rubber-armored, polycarbonate housing. Comfortable twist-up eyecups with multi-stop function ensure proper positioning of the eyes for eyeglass wearers and non-eyeglass wearers alike
  • In the field, you should have no trouble reaching them at a moment’s notice with the included GlassPak Chest Harness providing comfortable, protected, strain-free, all-day carry.Field of View:409 feet @ 1000 yd / 135.8 m @ 1000 m
  • A locking, right-eye diopter tailors each barrels' focus to your eyes. The smooth, center focus wheel provides fine focus control and quick sharp views. Twist-up eyecups rest comfortably against the face and provide customized eye relief.
  • Argon purging and o-ring seals provide a lifetime of waterproof and fogproof performance. Ultra-hard, scratch resistant armortek protects the exterior lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt.
  • A high density optical system delivers exeptional resolution and edge to edge clarity. XR anti-relfective lens coatings give bright, full views even in low light situations.
  • 8x magnification and 42mm objective lenses, the 2018 Viper HD is a high-end, full-size yet compact binocular that is suited for any hunt. An easy-to-grip, rubber armored chasis with perfectly placed thumb indents provides superior ergonomics.
6 Celestron – Outland X 8x42 Binoculars
Our Score:
9.0
Celestron
  • WATERPROOF AND FOGPROOF: Designed to withstand all weather conditions, our Outland X compact binoculars have been filled and sealed with dry nitrogen gas for rigorous outdoor use without internal fogging of the lenses
  • TWIST-UP EYECUPS FOR QUICK ADJUSTMENT: Large focus knobs make for easy and precise focusing, and twist-up eyecups allow for quick adjustment of eye relief to obtain a full field of view. Eyecups can be easily positioned for use with or without eyeglasses
  • PROTECTIVE RUBBER COVERING: Our binocular is both durable and well-armored; its rugged exterior ensures protection from all outdoor elements while providing a secure, anti-slip gripping surface. The Outland X is also a great birdwatching binocular
  • MULTI-COATED OPTICS AND BaK-4 PRISMS: Multi-coated optics help obtain high resolution and high contrast views, while the prisms made of BaK-4 glass will give you enhanced color fidelity. Enjoy crisp, detailed views and dependable performance with our Outland X all-around binocular
  • Broadband Fully Multi-Coated Optics
  • Protective XPL Exterior Lens Coatings
  • Dielectric Coated and Phase Corrected
  • Extra-Low Dispersion Glass Objectives
  • Compact BAK4 Roof Prisms
8 Nikon Monarch M5 8x42 Binocular
Our Score:
8.7
Nikon
  • Adjustable Eyecups: The turn and slide rubber eyecups are adjustable, so you can place them right where you want them
  • Design: The roof prisms on Monarch M5 binoculars have a phase-corrected coating applied to prism surfaces for high resolutions
  • Wide Field of View: With an astoundingly wide field of view up to 335-feet at 1000 yards, you can see more details and more of the scene
  • Lightweight: At just 22 ounces, it has a compact and lightweight design that allows you to carry it easily on any adventure
  • Bundle Includes: Nikon Monarch M5 8x42 Binocular with Focus Camera Binocular Harness and Nikon Lenspen Cleaning System
  • 8x magnification and 42mm objective diameter; 18-foot close focus distance; 17mm eye relief
  • Non-slip rubber armor and Soft Texture Grip absorbs shock and provides a firm grip
  • BaK-4 prisms and multi-coated optics offer crisp clear images with improved light transmission
  • 100% waterproof, O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged for reliable, fog-free performance
  • BaK-4 prism eyecups
  • Large center-focus knob for easy adjustments; Twist-up eyecups; Limited lifetime warranty
  • Textured grip
  • Porro prism binoculars
  • Waterproof & fog proof
  • WATERPROOF: The waterproof casing makes these binoculars a reliable companion even in extreme conditions and with LotuTec coating on the lenses allows for a clear unhindered view
  • FAST FOCUSING: The large, smooth and easy-to-grip focus wheel makes focusing particularly easy and, most of all, quick on a ZEISS Terra ED allowing you to never miss the action
  • WHAT'S INCLUDED: Zeiss 8x42 Terra ED Binoculars Black, Carrying Case, Lens Caps, Neck Strap, Lens Cloth, Zeiss Lens Cleaner which includes a Cloth and Lens Spray, and an extra Lumintrail Cleaning Cloth
  • POWERFUL BINOCULARS: Lightweight binoculars with 8x magnification for quality images, 125 m field of view at 1,000 m and a subject viewing angle of 56 degrees
  • VERSATILE: Given the small nature these binoculars for adults are great for bird watching, nature observation, events, travel, hiking, and other outdoor activities

What to Look For in a best 8x42 binoculars?

You may have some trouble making a purchase if you don't research it thoroughly. You are expected to invest time and focus on best 8x42 binoculars before investing in them. Usually, it will take you a long time to research a favorite product. But rest assured, we are here to assist you with your best 8x42 binoculars issue, no matter what time of day or night.

Although choosing a product is complicated, it will be more accessible and more available to everyone with today's information technology network. You are now given available sources of information such as famous websites, sale forums, or even customer's feedback. It can be said that information from these sources about best 8x42 binoculars will be beneficial to you.

So now you are expected to focus on needed criteria about best 8x42 binoculars. All of them will come with your investment. 

Objective Lens Size

Because it provides an indication of the performance of your binocular in low light settings such as dawn or dusk or areas with wooded terrain, you should consider how large the objective lens is. For those who want to have excellent low-light performance, a 42mm objective lens will be the best choice.

Ruggedness

Rubber coatings are a common feature on high-quality binoculars designed for hunting. Rubber coating protects your binoculars from being dropped or hit by something. The rubber coating provides a secure grip even in damp conditions.
Your binoculars are always banging on your head. Consider the last time that you rode up a tree with your climbing tree stand. You're likely to have smashed your binoculars once in a while.
We have to admit that even though they are kept in your pack, their bodies can take some beatings.

Quality

When choosing binoculars that are best for hunting, quality is the most important factor. While there's a direct correlation between price and quality, it doesn't mean you have to pay a lot to buy high-quality binoculars. Sticking with a top brand is one way to ensure quality.

Field Of View

It is important to have a wide field of view. Binocular viewing will be easier if there is a large field of view. You will see more of the object and less shaking. If a field of vision is 300 feet at 1,000 yards or greater, it's a sign that a binocular can be used for hunting.

Lens Coating

Many binocular lenses have a coating that enhances or protects the lens. A binocular with fully multi-coated lenses is a must. You may find a special coating on some binoculars, such as an anti-scratch or water repellent coating.

Magnification

The magnification of a binocular will tell you how large an object appears within its optical lens. An 8x binocular can magnify objects 8 times more than what they are in reality. A 10x magnification can give you more scope with your binoculars.

Eye Relief

The distance between the eyepiece and your eyes is the best way to see the full picture. This distance is called eye relief and it's a helpful measure for those who use glasses. A 15mm eye relief or greater allows glasses wearers enough room to see the entire image through the ocular lenses.

In general, our information is accurate because we are product consultants with a wealth of experience. In addition, we constantly update the best 8x42 binoculars information. Since the data is current and accurate, you can rest assured.

Any problems with best 8x42 binoculars should be reported to us so we can improve your experience. Please don't hesitate to contact us! We are all available to give you help. 

FAQs

What Is The Best Binocular Magnification For Hunting?

It is better to hunt in areas with few lines of sight and a magnification of at least 8x-10x. This will allow you to locate your target easier and provide more detail than is necessary. It may prove more advantageous to use a magnification of 12x, 15x, or even 20x when hunting vast areas. This depends on the distance you are looking. A tripod is a good option, as a tripod can help you stabilize your hand when shaking.

What Are The Best Binocular Numbers?

Two numbers are found on every binocular. One is magnification. This is how many times an image has been magnified. Second, the dimension of the objective lens in millimeters. When you view a binocular through it, the objective lens will be the largest lens. The larger objective lens points towards your target, so the better light and details enter the eye. This formula gives an 8x32 binocular with a 32mm objective and 8-times magnification.

Here are some more details if you still have questions about what numbers mean on binoculars. The numbers are usually larger, which means that the binocular's optical performance is greater. However, they also indicate the size of the object. A 6-x24 binocular can be carried in your shirt pocket. The 15x56 binocular, however, can be difficult to carry in one's hand. Hunting requires a compact binocular with enough power to view distant objects, but not too heavy to transport. A binocular with 8-10 power behind a 32-42mm lens is the best choice for hunters. Look for models that have these numbers, such as 8x32,8x42 or 10x42. Or, for light-gathering abilities, look for 10x50.

Should You Have Different Pairs Of Binoculars For Different Forms Of Hunting?

Most cases no. Good hunting binoculars can be used in many hunting environments, so they are versatile and allow the hunter to use them for any type of game. Only exception to this would be for large game hunting, where you might need a very high zoom pair. It would make sense to buy a lighter pair of binoculars for common hunts and keep your more powerful binoculars (which will likely be heavier and more complicated) for larger hunts. For situations in which you need to have a lot of range, a spotting scope can be incredibly useful.

Do You Need Binoculars For Deer Hunting?

Yes, that's the short answer. Safety is important because binoculars allow you to see faraway objects and not have your gun pointed at them. Using your riflescope instead of a telescope is dangerous. It is important to ensure that you know the target and its dimensions before firing at it. Binoculars reduce distance, so you can see faraway objects from afar without having to walk all the way. Binoculars are a great tool for success because they allow you to see distant animals during the early and late hours of the morning, when they are most likely moving.

What Size Binocular Lenses Are Best For Hunting?

It all depends on how you hunt. You may prefer lightweight binoculars if you're constantly on the go. A pair that has a smaller objective lens might work better for you. A pair with a larger objective lens is better for stationary hunters.

What Should I Look For When Buying Binoculars?

You should look for binoculars with fully multi-coated lenses. Multi-coated lenses are those that have multiple coatings on all surfaces to improve light transmission and reduce glare. This protects the lens against chipping or scratching. To prevent internal fogging, you should make sure the binoculars have been waterproofed.

What Can Moisture Do To My Binoculars?

Although rust is the most common problem, it is quite rare. Most often, moisture will affect your binoculars by causing slowed joints or gunk in them. This can make it difficult to focus or adjust the zoom. You can easily treat this by brushing your binoculars' crevices with any type of oil such as WD-40, gun oil or other mechanical oil. Extreme cases can lead to moisture getting into the lenses of your binoculars, which could cause a problem with a component or even a complete loss.

Most good binoculars come with seals that prevent water or condensation getting into the lenses. It can also be an issue with cheaper binoculars. Binocs can be killed by condensation within the line of sight. You might temporarily eliminate it by keeping your binoculars dry, but it'll return the next time it rains or is humid.


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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

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