8×42 vs 10×42 Binoculars: Which One Should You Get?

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8×42 vs 10×42 Binoculars For Birding

What should you know when comparing 8×42 vs 10×42 binoculars for birding? First, know that there are different kinds of binoculars you can use for bird watching. It all depends on your preference. There are compact ones that you can bring along anywhere you go. Some binoculars are large and bulky but would give you a better view.

You must remember two kinds of numbers when picking out binoculars. First is the magnification. If a pair of binoculars is 10×50, it means that the magnification strength of the binoculars is x10. The second number determines the objective lens size. For a 10×50, it means that the diameter of the objective lens is 50mm.

Let’s focus now on these two: the 8×42 vs 10×42 binoculars for birding. You may think that there’s no significant change between 8 and 10 magnifications. But, here’s a quick rundown on how they’re different.

Should I Choose 8×42 or 10×42 Binoculars for Birding?

As a bird watcher, you may choose a 10x binocular more than an 8x one. It’s natural since 10x binoculars can give more magnification power. This means a clearer view from afar. But, this doesn’t mean that the 8x binoculars are any less amazing.

They’re both high-powered, but they have significant differences. For starters, an 8×42 binocular is cheaper than a 10×42. It’s safe to say that smaller parameters mean cheaper prices.

If you want better image stability, you should go with an 8×42. It also has a broader field of view making it a better choice for close distance viewing.

But if you’re looking for more detailed images, a 10×42 is your best bet. Since it has higher magnification, you can zoom in further than the 8×42.

They’re also different when it comes to the exit pupils. The exit pupil is the light which enters the objective lens and goes out the ocular lens. You can calculate the exit pupils of the binoculars using this formula:

Objective lens diameter ÷ magnification factor = exit pupil

So, the exit pupil of an 8×42 binocular is 5.25 mm while the 10×42 is 4.2 mm. A smaller exit pupil means that less light goes into the binoculars. This means that you’ll need to exert more effort in positioning yourself to get good images.

Now that you’ve learned the difference between two binoculars, it’s up to you which one you’ll choose. It will depend on your preference and birding activities.

Now you’ve learned the differences of 8×42 vs 10×42 binoculars for birding. Once you’ve decided which one you prefer, it’s time to get your own binoculars. Here are some of the best 8×42 and 10×42 binoculars in the market.

8×42 Binoculars

1. Nikon 7548 Monarch 7

The Monarch 7 is a great choice if you’re looking for compact binoculars. It only weighs 1.3lbs (589g) which is good for birding beginners. It has all the qualities that you want in an 8×42. But, it has added features like prism coatings and weatherproofing.

2. Nikon 7576 Monarch 5

Another product from Nikon that’s worth considering is the Monarch 5. It’s also compact like the Monarch 7. This is a great option if you don’t have the budget for a Monarch 7. It still performs well with its ED glass lenses and comfortable built.

3. Athlon Optics Midas

The Athlon Optics Midas is a bit heavier than the first two. Weighing almost a kilogram (2.2lbs), it’s still considered a lightweight binocular. It’s main features at the XPL lens coating and the magnesium alloy chassis.

10×42 Binoculars

1. Vortex Optics Diamondback

Compact and lightweight at only 1.53lbs (693g), the Diamondback is a great pair of 10×42 binoculars. It’s waterproof and fog proof giving you options of birding in any weather condition. It has a 1,000-yard and 6.6° field of view with its multi-coated lenses and phase-corrected prism feature.

2. Nikon 7577 MONARCH 5

The Monarch 5 is also available in 10×42 binoculars. Like the 8×42 variant, it has extra-low dispersion and multi-coated glass lenses. Apparently, it has a field of view of 51.3°. It’s a great option for budgeted bird watchers.

3. Steiner Optics Predator

The Predator uses Color Adjusted Transmission coatings for the lenses. It adds great color contrast that may help in spotting birds easily. It’s also weatherproof because of the dry nitrogen in the binoculars.

Conclusion

There are great differences between these two binoculars. Both have their own strengths and downsides. But there’s no clear winner between 8×42 vs 10×42 binoculars for birding. It all boils down to the preference and purpose of each birdwatcher. Assess yourself and what you want to get the best experience with your binoculars.