5 Best 10X42 Binoculars Worth the Money (2022)

With strong magnification and objective lenses that let in tons of light for bright saturated views, “10X42” is the most versatile binocular size out there. They are suitable for anything from birding and wildlife to tactical and casual purposes. The best 10X42 binoculars offer crystal clear views and bright colors while maintaining a build that is light enough to carry easily and durable enough to withstand damage. Bonus points for models which don’t break the bank! Here are our favorites.

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Best 10X42 Binoculars

1. Nikon 7549 Monarch 7 10X42 Binocular

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The Monarch 7 10×42 is well constructed for spotting distant subjects. With Nikon’s trusted optical quality behind it, this set of binoculars delivers sharp high-contrast images that you can count on.

The Monarch 7 comes complete with dielectric multilayer coatings of high-reflective prisms. They are applied to all prism coatings and lenses in order to ensure faithful and vibrant color reproduction.

The Monarch 7 is easy to carry and hold for long periods. Its housing is durable and outdoors-ready. Overall, the Monarch 7 is a great trail companion which is well-suited for an array of outdoors and sporting activities.

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2. Leica Ultravid HD Plus 10X42 Binocular

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The Leica Ultravid HD comes with a Cordura nylon case. It has a contoured neoprene strap as well as an eyepiece rainguard and protective objective lens caps.

The Ultravid HD is compact, lightweight, and easy to use. Leica’s optical quality is reflected in this product which is also available in a range of different models with different magnification options.

The greatest strength of the Ultravid HD is its light transmission. In dim conditions, these binoculars provide views that are shockingly bright.

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3. Vortex Optics Diamondback 10X42 Roof Prism Binoculars

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These 10×42 Diamondback binoculars are a great addition to the Vortex product lineup. Made for hunting and outdoor sporting, the Diamondback is tough and capable of taking a beating.

These binoculars feature dielectric and fully-coated lenses which provide high levels of light transmission for brighter and clearer images.

The field of view on these binoculars is impressive and great for tracking moving objects at long distances. Hunters and birdwatchers will love the Vortex Diamondback.

The model has a short and sleek hinge design, equipped with thumb indents and rubber armor. This creates a non-slippery, secure grip. The multi-position eyecups are easily twistable for eye relief adjustments. There is also a right eye diopter to adjust focal differences.

The rubber armor and argon purging provide improved fog-proof and waterproof performance under fierce conditions. The nitrogen gas purging keeps away internal fogging over a range of temperatures. Overall, the Diamondback is tough as can be and equipped to face rough terrain.

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4. Vortex Optics Viper HD 10X42 Roof Prism Binoculars

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The Vortex Viper is another strong contender from Vortex. Like the Diamondback, the Viper model is equipped with dielectric multilayer prism coatings that provide clear, bright, and color-accurate images.

The Viper HD comes complete with a compact, rubber-armored chassis, which makes it ideal for hunting and tackling difficult terrain.

The eyecups are multi-position adjustable, which maximizes the custom fitting per user. The Viper HD is O-ring sealed and argon purged, which helps it to defy the elements and ensures fog-proof and waterproof performance under all conditions.

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5. Canon 10X42 L Image Stabilization Binoculars

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The Canon 10X42 comes with a padded case and a neoprene strap. This model also includes a rainguard eyepiece and objective caps consisting of a single push-on piece. The binoculars contain Alkaline batteries of two 1.5 Volts ‘AA’ power.

This is the first waterproof model which incorporates image stabilization. This Canon product provides a shake-free and steady viewing experience. This set consists of L series optics made of premium quality and also feature two ultra-low UD lenses on each side. These binoculars are capable of producing brilliant and true-to-life colors.

For stargazing, birdwatching, and a variety of nature-appreciation activities, the Canon L with image stabilization is a fantastic choice.

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Is 10X42 Better than 8X42 or 10X50?

Different models of binoculars serve different purposes. There is no perfect “one size fits all” solution to optics. If you are a bird watcher, a hunter, or a hiker, you may be inclined towards the high power of 10x magnification. Remember, though, that bigger isn’t necessarily better.

Though weaker, 8x binoculars will be lighter and produce much more stable images. They will also typically feature a wider field of view.

8×42 Binoculars

PROS:

• Wider field of view
• Usually less costly than 10x
• Exit pupil is larger
• High powered
• Improved image stability
• Ideal for close distance glassing.

CONS:

• Lower powered for identification and details.
• Not very practical for open field glassing.

10×42 Binoculars

PROS:

• Better twilight factor
• Good for wide-field and open glassing
• High powered
• Better identification image quality
• Further distance reach

CONS:

• Smaller exit pupil
• The field of view is narrower.
• Heavier

10×50 Binoculars

PROS:

• Allows extra minutes
• Same field of view as 10×42

CONS:

• 50mm binoculars come with extra weight

10×42 is perfect for most rifle hunting applications. 8×42 is the best for most bow hunting activities. All models of 8×42, 10×42, and 10x 50 are good for bird watching, depending upon the user’s needs. For safari and expeditions, the 10×42 model tends to be best, but more compact models may still be preferred.

Overall, the most versatile binoculars of all are 8×42 and 10×42. Binoculars with 10x magnify your subject by a factor of 10. While higher levels of magnification are available, anything beyond 12x will require image stabilization or a tripod.

Binocular price ranges

When you set out to buy the best 10×42 binoculars, you need first to determine what your maximum budget is. Optics beginners are often surprised by how much of an investment quality optics can be. The price range makes a huge difference, but even budget-friendly options can be sharp and dependable if you do your research.

Enlisted below are a few price ranges and what features you can expect in them:

Starters up to 100$

In this range, you can easily get a 10×42 pair, though it may be from a less respected brand than the more expensive stuff. Models under this price range will be lightweight and ergonomic. These binoculars are ideal for purposes including traveling, hunting, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and sports event watching. Some sets within this budget will also provide you rubber eyecups, an armored rubber coating for durability, and a central knob. A great option for beginners and average users who are not interested in making a huge investment!

Bargain $100-$150

At this range, you’ll begin to see the budget options available from trusted optics brands. In this price range, look for multi-coated glass, a durable build, and high quality prisms.

Budget $150-$250

This price range offers ED glass. Most models will also have adjustable eyecups. Binoculars in this category tend to be more of an investment and should be backed by a warranty.

Mid-range $250-$500

This price range has it all. From dependability to high-end optics to durability, for this price you can find almost anything you could want or need. You will also most certainly find options with Eco-glass, ED glass, High point design, and Dielectric coatings in a model within this range. This price range is typical amongst outdoor hobbyists.

Advanced $500 to $1000

In this budget, you get some serious optics and glassing options. Look for well-regarded brands which bring you the latest in optics technology. Views should be pristine, binoculars should be extremely durable and precise, and high quality accessories should be available as well.

How to Choose the Right 10X42 Binoculars?

If you are actively searching for the best 10X42 binoculars, make sure that you learn the basics so that you can ensure that you’re getting the best deal.

Prism Type

The prism type determines the size and physical appearance of the binoculars. Prisms are important for correcting the image’s orientation both vertically and horizontally to make the scene look natural.

The materials used for the prisms in the binoculars have a big effect on the image quality. Barium Crown Glass or BAK4 is the most suitable material. It has a lower critical angle and a high refractive index. 

BK7 is also a widely used material for prisms. It is slightly less good than BAK4 but is still good for light transmission.

Lens Coating

These are firmly applied to the objective lenses’ surface to decrease reflections and glare, enhance the contrast and light transmission, and make colors more vivid. Terms such as coated, fully-coated, and multi-coated refer to the coating process type and the location.

Simple coated are the most basic. They denote that at least one coating is applied on one lens surface.

Multi-coated means that multiple layers of coating are applied on multiple surfaces. 

Fully-coated means that every surface, inside and out, of the binocular, has multiple coatings applied to it. This treatment is the very best for color rendition, contrast, clarity, and high light transmission.

Eye Relief

This feature means the optimal distance from your eye to the focal point of the eyepiece. Manufacturers create eyecups so that the user’s eye is at an appropriate distance from the eyepieces. Adjustable eye relief is great, but the overall eye relief measurement should be long enough that glasses-wearers can operate the binoculars without removing their glasses or straining their eyes. The sweet spot is different for everyone but tends to be around 16 millimeters.

Materials

The materials from which your binoculars are constructed have a big effect on durability and weight. Aluminum is a common choice, but binoculars also come in magnesium and polycarbonate bodies.

Field of View

Field of view is denoted in feet at a 1,000 yards distance or 1,000 meters. It refers to the width of the entire area visible without moving the binoculars.

The greater your magnification and the lesser the objective lenses, the narrower your field of view will be. 

Related: 5 Best Binocular Harnesses in 2022 (Low-Profile & Full-Size)

Don’t Forget the Additional Features

Low Light Performance

• Many professions and hobbies require the ability to see objects in dim light.
• Hunters and naturalists most specifically work during dawn or dusk, when most animal activity is taking place. Sailors, too, most often, navigate in the twilight.
• This is why low light performance is an essential factor in many binoculars.

Image Stabilization

• If you are looking for binoculars to assist with your astronomy activities, you may need image stabilization of some kind.
• Activities such as hiking do not require image stabilization.

Night Vision

• Night vision binoculars enhance the images using a particular technology to collect all the available light. It includes infrared light to amplify the object in focus and provide views under the cover of darkness.
• A good model must have a powerful infrared spotlight and a sufficient viewing range.
• Night vision binoculars are used by the military for surveillance and targeting and also navigation purposes.
• The best model sizes for night vision binoculars are 10×25, 7x31mm

Waterproof

• Waterproofing is an important feature. Whether it is filled with a noble gas or just air, waterproofing prevents moisture from entering and causing internal fogginess in the binoculars.
• It also keeps fungus and mold from growing on the glass surface.
• Waterproof binoculars are especially important for those who work outdoors and with nature. 
• Waterproof and fog sealing also gives protection against sand, dust, and dirt.

Related: 10 Best 12×50 Binoculars Worth the Money