September 2023
Binoculars: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of binoculars rankings posted by key online experts, as of September 2023.
Summary
On 3 Sep 2023, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 95 binoculars endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
61 binoculars were endorsed in total, only 20 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 3 Sep 2023, Vortex Optics Viper HD takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed binoculars with 3 expert endorsements. 2 experts out of 3 recommended it as the '#1 binoculars' this month.
Brand breakdown
-
Celestron: 12 binoculars
(#1 is Celestron Nature DX ED)
-
Nikon: 9 binoculars
(#1 is Nikon Aculon A211)
-
Vortex: 6 binoculars
(#1 is Vortex Optics Viper HD)
-
Bushnell: 6 binoculars
(#1 is Bushnell Trophy XLT 8x32mm)
-
Nocs Provisions: 3 binoculars
(#1 is Nocs Provisions Standard Issue)
Price breakdown
At a glance - September Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Binoculars |
Space Exploration and Astronomy
|
Wirecutter
|
money.com
|
BestReviews
|
Forbes
|
OpticsMag
|
T3
|
Digital Camera World
|
Task and Purpose
|
GearJunkie
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $475 |
Vortex Optics Viper HD
The Vortex Optics Viper HD binoculars are highly praised for their optical quality, comfort, and durability, making them a reliable choice for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, hunting, and nature observation.
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
3
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
2
|
- | $204 |
Celestron Nature DX ED
The Celestron Nature DX ED binoculars offer high-quality optics, durability, and a balance between weight and size, making them a versatile option for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and stargazing.
|
15
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
|
3
|
- | $157 |
Nikon Aculon A211
The Nikon Aculon A211 binoculars are highly regarded for their optical quality, adjustable magnification levels, and durability, making them a versatile and reliable option for outdoor enthusiasts.
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
|
4
|
- | $287 |
Nikon Monarch M5
The Nikon Monarch M5 binoculars offer excellent optical quality, durability, and comfort, making them a reliable choice for outdoor activities such as birdwatching and nature observation.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
|
5
|
- | $1399 |
Canon 10x42 L
The Canon 10x42 L binoculars are highly recommended for stargazing and wildlife observation due to their good optical quality, 10x magnification, 42mm objective lenses, and durable construction.
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
|
6
|
+6 | $249 |
Celestron SkyMaster Pro
The Celestron SkyMaster Pro binoculars are highly recommended for astronomy enthusiasts due to their high-quality optics, durability, and suitability for stationary observations.
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
12
|
-
|
8
|
|
7
|
-1 | $219 |
Celestron TrailSeeker
The Celestron TrailSeeker Binoculars are highly praised for their optical quality, lightweight design, and durability, making them a great choice for outdoor activities such as wildlife observation, bird-watching, and stargazing.
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
7
|
-
|
10
|
|
8
|
-1 | $66 |
Celestron Outland X
The Celestron Outland X binoculars are highly praised for their optical quality, lightweight design, and durability, making them a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
2
|
|
9
|
-1 | $395 |
Celestron SkyMaster Astro
The Celestron SkyMaster Astro binoculars are highly regarded for their optical quality, offering a powerful magnification and wide field of view, making them ideal for astronomy enthusiasts and outdoor activities.
|
10
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
|
10
|
-1 | $100 |
Celestron Nature DX
The Celestron Nature DX binoculars are highly praised for their optical quality, lightweight and compact design, and durability, making them a great choice for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, wildlife observation, and stargazing.
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
|
11
|
-1 | $169 |
Vortex Optics Diamondback HD
The Vortex Optics Diamondback HD binoculars are highly praised for their optical quality, durability, and comfortable design, making them a reliable choice for outdoor activities.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
|
12
|
-1 | $169 |
Vortex Optics Crossfire HD
The Vortex Optics Crossfire HD binoculars offer exceptional optical quality, comfort, and durability, making them ideal for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, wildlife observation, and stargazing.
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
|
13
|
- | $167 |
Nikon Action EX Extreme
The Nikon Action EX Extreme binoculars are highly praised for their optical quality, durability, and performance in outdoor settings, making them suitable for a range of uses including observing distant objects, viewing objects at a close distance, hunting, fishing, sports, and travel.
|
14
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
|
14
|
- | $329 |
Celestron Trailseeker ED
The Celestron Trailseeker ED binoculars offer good optical quality, durability, and a wide field of view, making them suitable for a range of outdoor activities.
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
16
|
- | $106 |
Celestron SkyMaster Giant
The Celestron SkyMaster Giant binoculars offer powerful magnification, excellent low light performance, and versatility for both astronomy and terrestrial viewing, making them a great choice for stargazing and birdwatching.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
|
17
|
- | $120 |
Nikon Prostaff 3S
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
|
18
|
- | $125 |
Nikon Prostaff P3
|
12
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
|
19
|
- | $987 |
Nikon Monarch HG
The Nikon Monarch HG binoculars are praised for their optical quality, lightweight design, and durability, making them ideal for outdoor activities such as birdwatching and hiking.
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
15
|
-
|
-
|
|
20
|
- | $109 |
Opticron Savanna WP Porro
The Opticron Savanna WP Porro binoculars offer a range of magnification options, lightweight design, and impressive build quality, making them suitable for various outdoor observation activities.
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
13
|
-
|
-
|
|
21
|
- | Check price |
Vixen Binoculars SG 2.1×42
The Vixen Binoculars SG 2.1×42 are highly praised for their optical quality and are recommended for astronomy enthusiasts due to their wide field of view, close focus distance, and durable construction.
|
16
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
16
|
-
|
-
|
We ranked Vortex Optics Viper HD #1 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Vortex Optics Viper HD as #1.
money.com
Best overall
|
Lifetime warranty for damages and defects.
|
On the pricey side, at around $500.
|
Forbes
Best Binoculars For Birdwatching
|
Lifetime warranty and servicing courtesy of Vortex
Great balance between field of view and magnification
|
Some users report distortion along the edges of images
|
OpticsMag
Best Overall
|
Quality construction with O-ring seal
Works well in low-light conditions
Includes accessories
Unconditional lifetime warranty
|
On the expensive side
Eye relief isn’t great
|
We ranked Celestron Nature DX ED #2 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Celestron Nature DX ED as #1.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Best for daytime use: Guaranteed bright and sharp images through the day and into the night for less than $300
|
Sharp, bright images
Compact and portable
Waterproof, fog-proof and durable
|
They are expensive
Supplied with average eyecups
Not ideal for spectacle wearers
|
T3
The best binoculars for most people
|
Next-level optics
Compact size
Excellent build quality
|
Not much eye relief
Eyecups are average quality
|
Digital Camera World
Best rated binoculars
|
High-end optics
Sharp, bright and contrasty images
Travel-friendly size
Unbeatable build quality
|
High price
Relatively narrow field of view
Lens caps can get in the way
Not much eye relief
|
Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend binoculars.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of binoculars, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for September 2023 ranking
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Wirecutter
money.com
BestReviews
Forbes
OpticsMag
T3
Digital Camera World
Task and Purpose
GearJunkie
We ranked Nikon Aculon A211 #3 in September 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Nikon Aculon A211 as #1.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Best for entry-level astronomy: A sleek and well made binocular model with optics to boot
|
Great optics
Wide field of view
Sleek design
|
Eye relief isn't brilliant
-Not water resistant
|
BestReviews
Trusted Brand
|
These binoculars have a fingertip zoom control knob, and turn-and-slide rubber eyecups provide comfortable viewing for any user. The minimum focus distance is 49.2 feet, and the eco-glass lens offers a clear image in various environments and light conditions.
|
The quality of the tripod mount is mediocre.
|
T3
Hefty but impressive all-rounders at a great price
|
Excellent build quality
Easy to use
Bright and colourful images
|
Heavy and bulky
Fiddly objective lens caps
|
Task and Purpose
Best Overall
|
Feature adjustable 10-22-power multi-coated lenses and 50mm objectives made with patented lead and arsenic-free Eco-Glass.
Can be used in a variety of situations, proven to deliver a high-quality image under a multitude of lighting conditions.
Extremely effective for viewing objects at a distance from dawn until dusk.
Easy to use and operate, featuring eyepiece mounted zoom lever, which allows for quick magnification changes from 10x through 22x.
|
Customers have had issues with weight.
Rather heavy compared to some other options.
|
We ranked Nikon Monarch M5 #4 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Nikon Monarch M5 as #1.
Forbes
Best Binoculars Overall
|
Rubber coating improves grip
Smooth focus knob operation
Durable construction
|
Average field of view limits what you can see
|
GearJunkie
Best Overall Binoculars
|
Lightweight
Clear, striking image — even in low light
Easy-adjust dial
Durability
|
An average close range of focus
|
We ranked Canon 10x42 L #5 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Canon 10x42 L as #1.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Best binoculars overall: The finest stargazing binoculars money can buy with in-built stabilization
|
Optical Image Stabilizer
Rugged build quality
Lots of eye relief
|
Bulky size
Lens caps are loose
AAA batteries required
|
T3
The best binoculars for handheld stargazing
|
Shake-free stargazing
Mind-blowing moon-gazing
Can be mounted on a tripod
|
Lens caps not up to the quality of the rest of the unit
Heavy to hold for prolonged periods
IS runs batteries down quickly
|
Digital Camera World
Best for long distance
|
Steady image stabilized performance
Weather proofed with it
10x magnification and good size optics
|
Bulkier than non-stabilized binos
Weightier than most at 1,110g
|
We ranked Celestron SkyMaster Pro #6 in September 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Best for moon views: These binoculars have superb magnification and detail, but they're heavy
|
Great price for giant binoculars
Excellent eye relief
Optics offer good detail
|
Heavy, requires tripod
Some softness around edges
|
T3
The biggest and best binoculars for stargazing
|
Brilliant design
Amazing deep-sky images
Easier to use than a telescope
|
Narrow field of view
Too heavy to hold
|
Digital Camera World
Best for star-gazing
|
High magnification and large lenses
Rugged rubber armour
|
Big and bulky
-Better on a tripod
|
GearJunkie
Best of the Rest
|
Large objective lenses gather light from night sky
Tripod and red dot finder mounts
Fully coated optics with BaK-4 prisms
|
Difficult to keep still while handheld
|
We ranked Celestron TrailSeeker #7 in September 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Best binoculars under $300: Fogproof and waterproof for use in all weathers
|
No fogging
Bright images
Wide field of view
|
Carry case can’t house harness strap
Lack magnification for serious astro
|
T3
Another outstanding all-rounder
|
Sharp, bright images
Lightweight and durable build
Water- and fogproof
|
Lens caps fall off
|
Digital Camera World
Great upgrade option
|
Excellent image quality
Compact and lightweight
Waterproof
Stuff sack and harness included
|
Expensive
Loose lens caps
|
GearJunkie
|
State-of-the-art optics for optimal viewing
excellent balance of price and quality
ergonomically designed for comfortable use
|
focus dial can become weak or rust if not cared for properly
|
We ranked Celestron Outland X #8 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
money.com
Best for low prices
|
Includes carrying case, neck strap, lens caps and cleaning cloth.
|
Some customers claim images are dark in low light settings.
|
Digital Camera World
Great budget binoculars
|
Versatile and well suited to wildlife
Sturdy polycarbonate housing
Waterproof
Available in green or black
|
Neither small nor light
|
GearJunkie
Best Budget Binoculars
|
Most affordable adult binoculars on our list
durable design
good option for bulk purchase or outfitting an outdoor program
|
Touchy adjustment knob sometimes gets itself out of focus
binos don’t hold up well in wet and rainy conditions
|
We ranked Celestron SkyMaster Astro #9 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Best for magnification: See the Universe close up and in stereo, but don’t plan to hike with them
|
High magnification
Tripod adapter included
Great clarity and contrast
|
Very heavy, tripod needed
-Quite expensive
|
money.com
Best for stargazing
|
Strong 20x magnification ocular lenses for long-distance viewing.
|
At around 5 lbs, they may feel in your hands heavy after a while.
|
Task and Purpose
Editor's Choice
|
Extremely rugged product, able to withstand large drops.
Ideal for use in a variety of weather conditions, featuring water-resistant technology.
Soft, rubber eyecups are extremely comfortable, and can even be folded down for convenience and easy viewing for those who wear prescription eyeglasses.
Built-in tripod adapter rod for use with a variety of tripods.
Can easily be mounted to the tripod for use when stargazing or for wildlife viewing over extended periods of time.
|
Not the best option for use in broad daylight.
Due to the amount of light they let in, these binoculars are ideal for use in dim light settings.
|
We ranked Celestron Nature DX #10 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Best for affordable stargazing: A wide aperture and 12x magnification make these excellent for observing the cosmos
|
Excellent build quality
Close focusing
|
A little heavy for prolonged use
Image could be a touch sharper
|
T3
The best value binoculars for beginners
|
Detailed images in bright light
Excellent focus knob
Relatively light and compact
Lens caps are attached
|
Edge of image is blurry
Neck strap is poor
Not good for stargazing
|
Digital Camera World
Best price to perfroamce
|
Affordable for the optical quality
Eyeglasses wearers benefit from generous eye relief
Fits all hand sized
|
Some color fringing
A little soft around the edges
|
We ranked Vortex Optics Diamondback HD #11 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Vortex Optics Diamondback HD as #1.
BestReviews
Best of the Best
|
They have adjustable twist eyecups and offer 10 times magnification. The multi-colored lenses increase light transmission for a clear image, and the center wheel adjusts the focus of both barrels. It's fog-proof and waterproof.
|
Adjusting it can be challenging as they're a bit stiff.
|
GearJunkie
|
Incredible value for the quality of optics
great viewing, excels in low light
excellent warranty and customer service
|
Focus wheel and right eye diopter a bit clunky
included harness is not the easiest to use
|
We ranked Vortex Optics Crossfire HD #12 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Best mid-range model: The pair you need if a wide field of view and a good sturdy build quality top your brief
|
Sturdy, well-constructed build
Multipurpose optics
Manageable weight
|
-A little false color in views
-Slight blurring at the edge of FOV
|
T3
Great quality binoculars with a handy chest harness
|
Quality optics
'Glasspak' harness
Waterproof and nitrogen-purged
|
Annoying tethers on lens caps
|
Digital Camera World
Best all round binoculars
|
Harness prevents neck-ache
Good quality shoulder bag
Impressive in lowlight
|
Harness can get confusing
Tethered lens caps are fiddly
Close focus is 6ft
|
We ranked Nikon Action EX Extreme #13 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Best for reliability: A reliable pair that let in a lot of light, but we advise mounting them to a tripod
|
Wide field of view
Clear, crisp observations
|
Heavy, tripod required
Slight field curvature
|
T3
Heavyweight binoculars that deliver spectacular views
|
Clear and sharp
Shock-resistant and waterproof
|
Bulky and heavy
Lacks close focusing
|
Digital Camera World
Good for far-reaching views
|
12x magnification
Waterproof and fog-proof design
Good value price
|
Heavy to hold for long periods
Some edge distortion
Lens caps are easy to lose
|
We ranked Celestron Trailseeker ED #14 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
Forbes
Best Binoculars For Stargazing
|
Solid optics
Useful harness strap
|
Some users report loose objective lens caps
Lack the magnification necessary for deep sky observation
|
We ranked Celestron SkyMaster Giant #15 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
BestReviews
Best Bang for the Buck
|
Multi-coated optics.
Suitable for viewing in daylight and low-light situations.
Includes tripod mount.
Rubberized and ergonomically designed.
|
Quite large and heavy.
A small percentage have a problem with focus.
|
Digital Camera World
Best budget binoculars for astronomy
|
Huge 15x magnification
Great for stargazing
Comes with shoulder bag & tripod adaptor
|
Best used with tripod
|
We ranked Nikon Prostaff 3S #16 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
T3
Another excellent pair of all-rounders
|
O-ring sealed to keep moisture out
Reasonable price
Rubber construction for comfortable grip
|
Requires a steady pair of hands, or rest, for optimum viewing
Provided lens caps a bit flimsy and easy to lose
|
Digital Camera World
Best for everyday
|
Big-name brand at a modest price
Rugged rubber armor construction
O-ring sealed
|
Not premium optical quality
|
We ranked Nikon Prostaff P3 #17 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Best for beginners: These lightweight binoculars are easy to hold for long periods, best for terrestrial viewing
|
Lightweight for longer use
Adjustable eyecups
Nitrogen filled for anti-fog
|
No tripod adapter
Not the best for astronomy
|
Digital Camera World
Best entry-level binoculars
|
Premium feel to some areas
Optical quality is fantastic for price
Slim, sleek design transports easily
|
Shipped accessories feel cheap
Rubber armour is a little spongy in places
|
We ranked Nikon Monarch HG #18 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Best optical performance: Some of the best optics on the market in an easily transportable roof prism design
|
Highly portable
Sharp views across the whole field of view
|
No image stabilization
Negligible color fringing
|
Digital Camera World
Best for birdwatching
|
Wide angle of view
Waterproofed
Anti-fog magnesium alloy build
|
You pay a premium for being compact
|
We ranked Opticron Savanna WP Porro #19 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
money.com
Best binoculars for kids
|
Minimum 50 mm interpupillary distance (IPD) is ideal to reduce eye strain.
|
Lacks anti-fogging.
|
Digital Camera World
Best binoculars for kids
|
Compact and light – fit in a sling bag
No eyestrain for kids as young as seven
|
Not the most powerful binos
Lacks features like anti fogging
|
We ranked Vixen Binoculars SG 2.1×42 #20 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best binoculars” rankings.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Best for portability: Very low magnification sci-fi-esque binoculars for sussing out constellations
|
Very easy to keep steady
Widefield 3D stargazing
Small, light and easy to carry
|
Very low magnification
Blurry at edges
Lens caps are easy to lose
|
Digital Camera World
Best Niche binoculars
|
Unique field of view
Incredible depth of field
Portable size
|
Lack magnification
Edges are very blurry
Lose-able lens caps
|