The ULTIMATE 8x42 Binoculars Buying Guide | Optics Trade In The Field

[@gasperpodbregar]

Finally uploaded! it was amazing to be a part of this project! PS: The dog deserves credits aswell :D

[@Abhej1t]

I’m watching this in India in 2024, and first and foremost, I appreciate the sheer amount of effort put into making this video. It helps that you have such a beautiful wetland so close to your office. I had been searching for a pair of binoculars for some time and budget in the range of 200 to 400 Euros; imported binoculars are more expensive in India relatively because of higher import taxes but nonetheless, an Indian retailer was offering the Zeiss Terra ED at a significant discount and I just went with it. I understand its Made in China and a two year warranty all that but for an amateur, it is still a massive jump for me. I don’t intend to be a heavy user so hopefully I will make it last long. I was also worried about the serviceability of some of the brands in India, like Vortex. The Japanese brands generally do well on that front with strong domestic presence.

[@polonakraner993]

Yesssss. This was so fun to make and the location was just perfect!

[@robertradford6351]

I can't believe you haven't got the Olympus 8x42 DPSI binoculars!! Only£50 on Amazon with thousands of 5star reviews!! I can't believe how good these are for birdwatching and star gazing. Crystal clear amazing 👍👍

[@Canoe571]

This is the best review and comparison of models of any product I've seen. Thank you guys for going to the trouble to do this.

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Thank you for watching! We're glad it was helpful!

[@Palonames]

I would like to see Nikon Monarch HG 8x42 in this test.

[@StOKRATzoom]

kzbin.info/door/rKJ5aVast8tXtS-qRGL51w binoculars

[@mauriciolacruz]

Excellent video. 👍🏻 I recently purchased the Kowa Genesis Prominar XD in 8.5x44 and 10.5x44. Both spectacular (to my eyes). Both acquired brand new for less than €1,000 each even their retail prices are way above. Regardless their retail prices and/or the prices I paid for them, I'd like to know: Where would you place these two Japanese made binoculars on that table considering their optical performance and build quality? Would they be good contenders for the Alphas (top premium) or for the category right below (entry level premium) and why? Thank you! 😊

[@Ratchman_5000]

No Carson optics? I'm doing my research by watching reviews and have heard many good things about Carson.

[@FraterMerovius]

For astronomical use, what one is using binoculars for matters with regards to how much magnification one would desire. If one wants to be able to spot dim objects in order to direct a telescope to it, lower power is better, to maximize brightness and exit pupil diameter for a given objective lens diameter. Higher powers would be desirable for lunar and planetary observations without a telescope. Lunar observations in particular benefit from less overall image brightness, as the moon is generally the brightest object in the night sky.

[@buserror]

Old video, but I had the Viper HD which I loved, but now got a pair of EL range which are amazing as you all say. I'd be curious if you'd update the video with the new Vortex too, apparently the UHD ones are spectacular. My Viper HD served me well tho, and well, I do miss their (lack of) weight compared to the massive EL range!

[@Touborgen]

By far the best binos guide available in the entire cyberspace! Thanks alot for your effort making it.

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Thank you for watching, glad you've enjoyed it.

[@stephenpowstinger733]

I have been looking for awhile and what I have not seen is a comprehensive chart of the various brands/ models with detailed info on features offered, type glass/plastic, waterproofing, coating used, weight, prism vs roof type, diopter adjustment, polarizing (possible?), cellphone adaptable, eyecup comfort, tripod screw, included accessories. And what is the approximate Euro to U.S.dollar conversion factor? What is a bridge?

[@Sensei-padthai]

I have a vortex diomandback 8×42. Its produces in china, ive lost it multiple times, its been out in rain/snow for weeks. And perfectly fine when found it. I use it for hunting, if it breaks they have a lifetime guarantee. U usually just get a new one. The glass is really good aswell With zeiss.-wait 2 month for repairs=hunting season over. I suspect this is just a video lure people in buying expensive glass

[@dw3651]

Vortex glass cant be compared to good european optics.

[@Sensei-padthai]

Im talking in general, im not comparing glass, and i didnt say the glass was better. If your an active hunter go for the cheaper binoculars with a life time guarantee. I have a 2500$ binocular covered with dust. Its to heavy to drag around. The diamondback barely fits in my pocket and has a lifetime guarantee. I delivered the zeiss to shop and it took me almost half a year repair. The diamondback does the same job and you dont have to be scared of using it. What i hate about the video is they are talking about how bad the cheap binoculars are. When they in my case has been the best performer on the hunt.

[@richardtodd3357]

The diamondbacks have a lot of the same, as them binoculars at two plus grand. Why would you?

[@SuzieR5]

@@Sensei-padthai I don't think they really put down the cheaper models. All they are saying is, you get what you pay for, and here's what you are getting. They explicitly said that beginners should definitely start with a cheaper pair before investing in something more expensive.

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

@@dw3651 Clearly you didnt read his comment. The best bino is the one you have with you.

[@patricj951]

Thanks for good videos and so is this as well! But I think Nikon's premium grade models should be included in the premium class when they since long time have been rivalling the european brands. And not to forget that Nikon's new WX 7x50 and 10x50 by a united expertise are considered to be the best ever binoculars.

[@metalgamerk9549]

Also the most expensive!

[@Freedom89984]

Nikon’s HG?

[@Velodynamic]

The eye cups have many steps - very important. 😄

[@saluto1397]

The scope of the video was too large , so the whole video came out as vague . Atleast the names of the models (bins) that were showcased should have been mentioned. After the elaborate test one hoped to see where each model stood in that particular price category. What i really learnt from the video was that pricey models are better built , and ..... Ah almost forgot, ... that you give spare eyecaps when they wear out ,if you own the top end models.

[@StOKRATzoom]

kzbin.info/door/rKJ5aVast8tXtS-qRGL51w binoculars

[@Scrooge721]

Great video! The whole team at Optics-Trade really outdid themselves with this video!

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Thank you SO MUCH!

[@klausmodinger787]

I wish you would have included at least one porro design binocular per price class.

[@rey1953]

I wish they had discussed types of optical glass used in the different classes. Surprised they did not include Minox, a German brand, in their assessment.

[@flyingformation1878]

I can't get enough, I keep watching this video! I have learnt so much! Tnx guys.

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Thank you so much!

[@Russell-1]

A very well done group review, also really enjoyable to watch. Thanks.

[@pierremayer94]

Thank you so much. A lot of useful information and nice presentation.

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Thank you for watching!

[@bıçak_knife_messer_tool]

*Mid Class Best 8x42 Binoculars:Bushnell Engage EDX 8X42,Celestron Regal ED 8X42,Celestron TrailSeeker ED 8x42,Athlon Midas G2 UHD 8X42,Kowa BD-II XD 8X42,Hawke Frontier APO 8X42 And Nikon Monarch M7 ED 8X42*

[@GroomsJk]

Great video - equally well done as your singular product videos. Why can't an American Optics company do this??

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Haha, thank you for the kind words!

[@MadLudwig]

What about Leupold BX-5 Santium and BX-4 Pro Guide binoculars? They're superb in the mid and upper capability range. Made in Japan with exceptional optical performance.

[@meowman08]

Amazing video...keep up the good work.

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Thank you for watching! We'll do our best! :)

[@randyprice1831]

I enjoyed your video comparison. I purchased the Swarovski SLC 8x42 HD field glasses. I liked the Swarovski EL's but could not justify the extra cost for the little benefit.

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Good choice, thank you for watching!

[@jeandelucdephil5481]

Excellent video ! So pleasant to watch and so instructive. Thank you and keep up the good work.

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Thank you for the nice feedback, glad you enjoyed it!

[@dandanita1692]

a lot of USA companies have their stuff made in China, if im not wrong including Vortex/Carson, made in China does not mean bad quality

[@tebe3240]

Can you explain the flat field of view compared to a regular field of view and why people prefer one field of view to the other ?

[@richardc6932]

Vortex make a decent pair of binoculars at a very decent price and lifetime warranty. Unless you are used to buying and paying for the most expensive in any line save your money. The average user will not notice the difference between a €500 and a €1000 pair of binoculars unless you are a bino geek, not that there is anything wrong with being a geek. 🤓

[@cvee2614]

8X32 in the Vortex Diamondback HD < 200 USD... Can't go wrong.

[@SuzieR5]

Good brand, but 8X32 will have a small exit pupil, which means you have to line them up just right. 8X42's are easier to use in that regard. I have the Vortex Viper HD 8X42 (yes, for a bit more money), and I love them. I think those are a very nice small step up in optical quality for not all that much more.

[@erincook6007]

Yea I like the vortex UHD line for hunting cause I break everything.

[@FountainCityVol]

GPO and Vortex just a couple with lifetime warrantys in the $400 range.

[@ManuelaGander]

Thank you for this review! As someone who would like to buy binoculars but doesn’t know anything about them (I heard Leica and Zeiss are good, that’s it), it was really helpful. Thanks!

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@dejansotirov9782]

Top! Hvala!

[@2amendment1960]

Pleese tell me what pairs are best for when wearing eye glasses,,which ones have longest eye relief?

[@Gustavo-rg9td]

Hello! Please! Vortex Viper 10x42 or steiner Safari ultrasharp 10x42?

[@Winters11]

The vortex razor uhd didn’t survived the cut to the higher tier?

[@jonathanlee5013]

Great video folks 👌🏻

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@michaelcadena9330]

For the low end, are those the Vortex Diamondback HD's or regular Diamondback model?

[@OpticsTradeEU]

At the time of filming this buying guide, the new Vortex Diamondback HD weren't yet available that's why they're not included here.

[@TheMaurideep]

why not a Minox, the HG BR 8x43 ?

[@mrmaxaxl]

I haven't seen you guys in a while. Are you still open for business? Would be nice to see some new reviews, for example the new Zeiss SFL line! Thanks.

[@MrGflan]

Hello, can anyone help explain what the “flat” look of the Swarovski means versus the Zeiss victory? Debating the best binoculars and could use an understanding of this. Thanks

[@robertkirk4387]

I AM NO EXPERT, SO TAKE THIS AS MY OPINION. some manufacturers build in a flat field view ( not field OF view) making your image as is stated, Flat, some have a more slightly curved image , porro prism binoculars for example have an almost 3D effect which is natural to that design, some love that and feels more like the human eye. Porro prisms always out- perform Roof prisms for the price as they have less internal reflection having two less prism surfaces to reflect off, though they do look old fashioned? . I suppose this proves the adage Try before you buy, I hope this helps, good look.

[@solomontaub141]

Great video. Notice that some of the recommended products are discontinued.

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Yes, we filmed this video over two years ago. For our current recommended products you can read our written buying guide here: www.optics-trade.eu/blog/the-ultimate-8x42-binoculars-buying-guide/ , where we regulary make updates about available products.

[@solomontaub141]

@@OpticsTradeEU thanks so much guys.

[@solomontaub141]

@@OpticsTradeEU I sm new in this field. If originally i thought that larger the numbets - better the view - you taught me that 8x42 may serve me better than 10x50 or 16x50 - whch are common at stores near us. What is your opinion about Bresser or Meade 8x42? Consider that i am a begginer in this field.

[@StOKRATzoom]

kzbin.info/door/rKJ5aVast8tXtS-qRGL51w binoculars

[@TreenighetMaranata]

Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Binocular! 🤗

[@s.d.r1062]

Swaro NL Pure or Zeiss Victory SF?

[@golgotretze]

How would the GPO Passion HD 8x42 compare to the binoculars in the upper middle class of the review?

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Could you please write us an email at [e-mail]? Our sales team will reply as soon as possible, and give you our objective opinion.

[@Paultricounty]

I’ve been buying & collecting binoculars for a while , I always didn’t understand this term open bridge. For example the Swaro EL’s, Zeiss SF and a few other makes & models. Shouldn’t it be called a double bridge or double hinge? To me an open bridge , where the two barrels are open from the objective lenses to the bridge for easier hand placement like Conquest, GPO, etc. etc. should be called an open bridge. No?

[@StOKRATzoom]

kzbin.info/door/rKJ5aVast8tXtS-qRGL51w binoculars

[@adriansandry2783]

I'm 62 now but I've had and used binoculars all my life. I have used binoculars professionally both in the army and as a merchant seaman. Now I take binoculars with me on every walk and excursion to observe birds, buildings, and the world around me. If I had my life again the first thing I would do on leaving school would be to save up for a pair of 10x32 Swarovski binoculars because they add so much value to my life. The optics are outstanding, compact, lightweight, superb quality. The 32mm gives me a wider FOV than the 42mm. They are plenty good enough for what I need in low light. I would never compromise again and purchase less good binoculars.

[@leslieyoung7067]

I'm 60 and I respect your opinion, yet 10x32 seems to be a bit of an oddball size. Is it the compactness that you like, i.e. you're more likely to carry them than say 42's? It's a lot of money pre-retirement. I mostly backpack in the Sierras, don't hunt anymore. Smaller would be better for me.

[@SuzieR5]

For me, the size of the exit pupil is important. (= ratio of the two numbers: 32/1 = 3.2mm exit pupil, the width of what's hitting your eye). A friend has a 10x32 and it drives me crazy to use, because it's so hard to position them. For me, 8X42 works very well. But I think this all a personal preference issue.

[@backgammonbacon]

8x42 is perfect for astronomy. The limit to what you can see is controlled by your hands shaking so 7x and 8x are perfect. Objects like andromeda and the Great Orion nebula are many times larger than the moon so dont need magnification just aperture. Telling people to get higher magnification for astronomy is awful advice 10x is as high as you should go.

[@StOKRATzoom]

kzbin.info/door/rKJ5aVast8tXtS-qRGL51w binoculars

[@stexiati1]

I got an 8x56 from DDoptics, it is very good for astro

[@prototek128]

Congratulations guys, so much effort out in to this, and in your second language. Fabulous B)

[@OpticsTradeEU]

thanks for watching!

[@barry7608]

Many top end also offer range finding but not mentioned

[@peterlewis3540]

Why not discuss the 7x magnification. There is very little visual difference between an 8x magnification and a 7x magnification. The real BIG difference, is the superior field of view and user friendliness of the 7x42 over the 8x42. This was the main reason i went for the 7x42 Leica Ultravid HD+, for over all handling whilst bird watching.

[@steveh.3370]

I've always preferred 7X over 8X for hand-held binoculars. 7X is easier to hold steady, and you can't really tell much difference in magnification.

[@MustafaSS-u3z]

Best 7x binoculars for day and light? And not expensive?

[@johnmckay428]

thank you so much! great information.

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Thank YOU for watching!

[@slawco7]

BLASER Primus jest super!

[@johnwicks6187]

Yeah my Victory HT also. Center is sharp but near Edge to Edge is so garbage damn blurry. Wasting $2500 to buy it😢 we want our Refund now

[@ethancane]

Excellent review

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Thank you for watching!

[@geoffallen1331]

They could have saved a lot of chat ,people out of the office and my time by just coming on saying buy the expensive ones

[@fwfw9898]

Awesome video! But I already brought a wrong binocular which called Fujiyama Optics 10x42 ED binocular $3000HKD (€354), and I could not found out my binocular review on any website...

[@Sloba1992]

Investigate before you buy something

[@TheAfruman]

I miss the Hawke Frontier ED X, where did you see this glas and Minox HG?

[@nitinhajare3582]

Please show the 10*32 and 10*42 binoculars

[@OpticsTradeEU]

For smaller, more compact binoculars you can watch the buying guide here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r3OafKmgbKeMbZY

[@mickeygvirtsman1440]

1. Thanks for a highly informative Guide! Really Helpful! 2. Love the Viszla running around :))

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Thank you for the feedback. We'll be doing a ton of this kind of guides in the future. If you have any suggestions, please tell us!

[@ananda3166]

Great video. I am going to buy 10*50 for aeroplane spotting. Would it be a good option.

[@Sloba1992]

Best review

[@Treviscoe]

Lovely place!

[@OpticsTradeEU]

It really is, thank you for watching!

[@ahmedsohail67]

Very informative video. I request to all European companies please come in India because Nikon is looting us

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Thank you for watching. We also ship to India!

[@patrickgibbons5961]

While the upper priced binoculars will take care of problems after the warranty has expired, it is probably not free. Vortex is free for life.

[@lollllll2405]

i expect more technical spec of bino and which one to buy.... seems i wasted my time on this video

[@stexiati1]

DDoptics could be a nother good european brand

[@trident8872]

Why Nikon WX10X50 is not reviewed here?

[@camadventures2.0]

Nikon Costco

[@jeremykeller211]

Is this a buying guide or an advertisement? One way to tell: read the comments. How many say great! Very useful!, without asking any critical questions. Typically KZbin influencers will include an array of affirmations in the comments section. You will not see detractors or viewers who spot advertisers at work.

[@georgetaylor5433]

So, finally, what the hell do u recommend ? What's all this show for and about ? Confusing video, really, I don't get it, Optics Trade, what are u trying to sell? What is your business model ??? Tell us maybe we will be able to understand, what a magma !

[@mingkailung512]

正

[@barry7608]

I gave you a thumbs down, the vid had potential you just failed to deliver ie little or no comment on ease of operation, smoothness of rotation for eye spacing and diopter? No mention of who had nitrogen or sealed gases. Comments from your staff who seemed to play no part in the commentary. There were plenty of opportunities but you two waffled way to long

[@MrBeanpop]

They are just sales people not actual enthusiasts of optics. It's just a job for them they aren't buying and using the products themselves.

[@skepticalmechanic]

Well said..

[@lloydbrannan1002]

The binoculars from Temu from $30 to $40 price range can beat most mid range binoculars in this video. The binoculars on the table alot are made in China and the Philippines. Don't be fooled these people are being paid to promote these

[@99problemsbutafishaintone35]

I need binoculars to see which ones your holding in the fucking video.

[@Mamo878]

Disappointing. Mainly erroneous chatter about warranty coverage (many lower to mid-priced bins _do_ have unlimited lifetime warranties now) and accessories. Almost nothing about the important things about optical characteristic differences such as clarity and brightness. In fact, they mention almost nothing about ability in low light and why it is important. And obviously everyone already knows that if you spend around 2000 bucks or more it's going to be top notch. Duh.

[@StOKRATzoom]

kzbin.info/door/rKJ5aVast8tXtS-qRGL51w binoculars

[@Lolo-il2zz]

Allez this energy deployed for nothing : just asking to ignore the real entry level binoculars made in Asia because you probably don't make enough profit on these ones...

[@suhangyin8872]

Shortly after NL Pure killed all of them

[@billmoyer3254]

Last I checked, Austrian Gaston Glock invented a "plastic" gun and changed the world for firearms. Metal chassis construction is not inherently better. It's about the optics. Look at Photo gear. The lenses are lighter, have more non-metallic bodies, but the optics get better and better. Stop the Euro snobbery. It's embarrassing.

[@spikedouglas9989]

I thought it was a fucking cougar! I was like “oh my god!” Haha

[@Tanko3691]

OMG... different people talking a lot but no actual reviews

[@skepticalmechanic]

Just a sales video 👎🏻

[@roaldyboy]

What a waste of time, way too much talking about nothing

[@Leafbinder]

Forget that just buy Vortex Crossfire an get the ultimate lifetime warranty

[@aslanbosnakoglu8240]

what a load of bs. you can buy fine binoculars for 300 euro.

[@clawer2969]

No binoculars of 300 euros will come close to the holy trinity of alpha glass.

[@georgetaylor5433]

Min 4:42 onwards, everytime the girl asks a sensible question, the guy automatically answers " well, here we have a debate /a problem,...etc Why not suggest solutions instead of adding layers of pbms and pbms ? The world would be so much better off ! Your program is so corny and predictable ! Shame ...

[@timotejgracner3103]

Amazing video! Super valuable and useful. Please, publish more videos like this. Thank you Optics Trade team!

[@OpticsTradeEU]

Thank you for watching! More videos like this coming soon! :)

[@th.n.5502]

@@OpticsTradeEU Very best video.Please which is the best limit magnification of binoculars.and the best company to buy binoculars ?i want to spend 500euro.i want to buy binoculars with magnification 8*42 or 10*50.wnich is the best binoculars??

[@Ma5hak]

It was an awesome day, I'm glad to be a part of this video!

[@richardalexander5758]

Hawke just fixed my pretty old Frontier ED binoculars that were damaged way out of warranty with no questions. Awesome customer service!

[@billmccullough777]

Great display of Eurocentric discrimination until the end. Generalizations are not helpful to people who are buying a specific binocular.

[@leeware2117]

Lower class = Made in China. Please STOP using that as a negative. I've bought plenty of crap manufactured elsewhere in the world. See how well your argument holds up when it comes to buying a drone.

[@rajiggyfizzle]

Hi guys, in the US the Athlon Midas 8x42 is available for ~$200 (incl a lifetime warranty!) - I'm surprised you included it in a more expensive class, but given the price difference how do you think they compare vs the leading examples such as the Vortex Vipers and the Vanguard Endeavor EDII? I have seen many reviews praising the Midas, some saying they don't compare... to a lesser degree the same with the Vipers, and there seems to be universal love for the EDII's - interested to know your thoughts! Thanks

[@billmoyer3254]

Kunming United Optics is the manufacturer

[@WorldHuntingMedia]

Don't see Kahles binos in premium segment. And you could also add Steiner/Minox in upper middle. They are very popular.

[@nandasurya2076]

Please suggest 250$ best binoculars all types (adventure +site scene + best zoom+ compact handled)..

[@DUKEisALIVE]

Great Video! Never seen so many binos reviewed at once. Really great quality content! Only was missing the Nikon Binos but i guess you dont have them.

[@curly_]

No kahles unfortunatly

[@havana335]

European level quality is no longer confined to Europe. GPO, Track Torics, Etc Etc. Of course this video is 3 plus years old.