September 2022
Binoculars: Meta Ranking Report
This report contains an aggregate consensus of Binoculars rankings posted by key online experts, as of September 2022.
Summary
As of 7 Sep 2022, 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. It is followed by Celestron TrailSeeker and Canon 10x42 L , with 4 and 3 expert endorsements respectively.
At a glance - September 2022 Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Binoculars |
Wirecutter
|
Digital Camera World
|
Space Exploration and Astronomy
|
Task and Purpose
|
Forbes
|
OpticsMag
|
T3
|
BestReviews
|
money.com
|
GearJunkie
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
+2 | $484 |
Vortex Optics Viper HD
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
|
2
|
-1 | $169 |
Celestron TrailSeeker
|
-
|
4
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
|
3
|
-1 | $1499 |
Canon 10x42 L
|
-
|
1
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
4
|
- | $111 |
Nikon Aculon A211
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
5
|
- | $35 |
Celestron SkyMaster Giant
|
-
|
5
|
15
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
|
6
|
- | $129 |
Celestron Nature DX
|
-
|
17
|
14
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | $220 |
Celestron Nature DX ED
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
8
|
- | $85 |
Celestron Outland X
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
3
|
|
9
|
- | $169 |
Vortex Optics Crossfire HD
|
-
|
3
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
10
|
- | $149 |
Celestron SkyMaster Astro
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
|
11
|
+1 | $175 |
Nikon Action EX Extreme
|
-
|
6
|
13
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
12
|
+2 | Check price |
Vixen Binoculars SG 2.1×42
|
-
|
14
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
12
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
13
|
New * | $329 |
Celestron Trailseeker ED
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
14
|
New * | $95 |
Nocs Provisions Standard Issue
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
|
17
|
-6 | $127 |
Nikon Prostaff 3S
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
18
|
- | $245 |
Celestron SkyMaster Pro
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
19
|
- | $134 |
Opticron Savanna WP Porro
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
|
20
|
- | $38 |
Celestron UpClose G2 20x50
|
-
|
15
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
13
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
We ranked Vortex Optics Viper HD #1 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Vortex Optics Viper HD as #1.
OpticsMag
Best Overall
|
Pros
Quality construction with O-ring seal
Works well in low-light conditions
Includes accessories
Unconditional lifetime warranty
|
Cons
On the expensive side
Eye relief isn’t great
|
money.com
Best overall
|
Pros
Lifetime warranty for damages and defects.
|
Cons
On the pricey side, at around $500.
|
We ranked Celestron TrailSeeker #2 in September 2022 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Celestron TrailSeeker as #1.
Digital Camera World
Compact and waterproof and amongst the finest mid-range binoculars you can buy
|
Pros
Excellent image quality
Compact and lightweight
Waterproof
Stuff sack and harness included
|
Cons
Expensive
Loose lens caps
|
Space Exploration and Astronomy
For under $300 these are the best binoculars you can buy today
|
Pros
No fogging
Bright images
Wide field of view
|
Cons
Carry case not supplied
|
T3
Another outstanding all-rounder
|
Pros
Sharp, bright images
Lightweight and durable build
Water- and fogproof
|
Cons
Lens caps fall off
|
GearJunkie
Best Overall
|
Pros
State-of-the-art optics for optimal viewing
excellent balance of price and quality
ergonomically designed for comfortable use
|
Cons
focus dial can become weak or rust if not cared for properly
|
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 2022 ranking
Wirecutter
Digital Camera World
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Task and Purpose
Forbes
OpticsMag
T3
BestReviews
money.com
GearJunkie
We ranked Canon 10x42 L #3 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Canon 10x42 L as #1.
Digital Camera World
A pricey set of premium binoculars, but the spectacular stabilization makes them worth it
|
Pros
Steady image stabilized performance
Weather proofed with it
10x magnification and good size optics
|
Cons
Bulkier than non-stabilized binos
Weightier than most at 1,110g
|
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Hands down the finest stargazing binoculars money can buy
|
Pros
Optical Image Stabilizer
Rugged build quality
Lots of eye relief
|
Cons
Bulky size
Lens caps are loose
AAA batteries required
|
T3
The best binoculars for handheld stargazing
|
Pros
Shake-free stargazing
Mind-blowing moon-gazing
Can be mounted on a tripod
|
Cons
Lens caps not up to the quality of the rest of the unit
Heavy to hold for prolonged periods
IS runs batteries down quickly
|
We ranked Nikon Aculon A211 #4 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Nikon Aculon A211 as #1.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
A sleek and well made binocular model
|
Pros
Great optics
Wide field of view
Sleek design
|
Cons
Eye relief isn't brilliant
-Not water resistant
|
Task and Purpose
BEST OVERALL
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
Customers have had issues with weight.
Rather heavy compared to some other options.
|
T3
Hefty but impressive all-rounders at a great price
|
Pros
Excellent build quality
Easy to use
Bright and colourful images
|
Cons
Heavy and bulky
Fiddly objective lens caps
|
We ranked Celestron SkyMaster Giant #5 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Celestron SkyMaster Giant as #1.
Digital Camera World
Best budget binoculars for astronomy
|
Pros
Huge 15x magnification
Great for stargazing
Comes with shoulder bag & tripod adaptor
|
Cons
Best used with tripod
|
Space Exploration and Astronomy
This has superb magnification and detail, but it's a heavy unit
|
Pros
Great price for giant binoculars
Excellent eye relief
Optics offer good detail
|
Cons
Heavy, requires tripod
|
BestReviews
Best of the best
|
Pros
Multi-coated optics.
Suitable for viewing in daylight and low-light situations.
Includes tripod mount.
Rubberized and ergonomically designed.
|
Cons
Quite large and heavy.
A small percentage have a problem with focus.
|
We ranked Celestron Nature DX #6 in September 2022 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
Digital Camera World
Mid-priced binoculars well suited to low light conditions and astronomy
|
Pros
Nitrogen filled to prevent fogging
Suitable for low light with large 56mm lens
|
Cons
Heavier than many alternatives
|
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Fantastic magnification makes these ideal for galaxies
|
Pros
Great for galaxies
Manageable weight
Waterproof, fog-proof and durable
|
Cons
Slight distortion at field's edge
-Surface isn't as grippy as other rubber coated bins
|
T3
The best value binoculars for beginners
|
Pros
Detailed images in bright light
Excellent focus knob
Relatively light and compact
Lens caps are attached
|
Cons
Edge of image is blurry
Neck strap is poor
Not good for stargazing
|
BestReviews
Durable and Rugged
|
Pros
Crisp images.
Easy to focus.
Lightweight and fairly compact, so they are easy to carry.
Nice for birdwatching.
Includes carrying case, lens, cap, eyepiece, rain guard, neck strap, cleaning cloth, and manual.
|
Cons
Manufacturer claims of these binoculars being waterproof are questionable.
Some durability concerns.
|
We ranked Celestron Nature DX ED #7 in September 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Celestron Nature DX ED as #1.
Digital Camera World
These top quality compact binoculars are bursting with brightness
|
Pros
High-end optics
Sharp, bright and contrasty images
Travel-friendly size
Unbeatable build quality
|
Cons
High price
Relatively narrow field of view
Lens caps can get in the way
Not much eye relief
|
T3
The best binoculars for most people
|
Pros
Next-level optics
Compact size
Excellent build quality
|
Cons
Not much eye relief
Eyecups are average quality
|
We ranked Celestron Outland X #8 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
Digital Camera World
The best budget binoculars, offering great value for money and a range of sizes
|
Pros
Versatile and well suited to wildlife
Sturdy polycarbonate housing
Waterproof
Available in green or black
|
Cons
Neither small nor light
|
money.com
Best for low prices
|
Pros
Includes carrying case, neck strap, lens caps and cleaning cloth.
|
Cons
Some customers claim images are dark in low light settings.
|
GearJunkie
Best Budget
|
Pros
Most affordable adult binoculars on our list
durable design
good option for bulk purchase or outfitting an outdoor program
|
Cons
Touchy adjustment knob sometimes gets itself out of focus
binos don’t hold up well in wet and rainy conditions
|
We ranked Vortex Optics Crossfire HD #9 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
Digital Camera World
These mid-range binoculars come with a handy harness and boast excellent optics for all-round use.
|
Pros
Harness prevents neck-ache
Good quality shoulder bag
Impressive in lowlight
|
Cons
Harness can get confusing
Tethered lens caps are fiddly
Close focus is 6ft
|
Space Exploration and Astronomy
If you need sturdy binoculars, this is the pair to buy
|
Pros
Sturdy, well-constructed build
Multipurpose optics
Manageable weight
|
Cons
-A little false color in views
-Slight blurring at the edge of FOV
|
T3
Great quality binoculars with a handy chest harness
|
Pros
Quality optics
'Glasspak' harness
Waterproof and nitrogen-purged
|
Cons
Annoying tethers on lens caps
|
We ranked Celestron SkyMaster Astro #10 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
Space Exploration and Astronomy
See the Universe close up and in stereo, but don’t plan to take them anywhere
|
Pros
High magnification
Tripod adapter included
Great clarity and contrast
|
Cons
Very heavy, tripod needed
-Quite expensive
|
Task and Purpose
Editor's Choice
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
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.
|
money.com
Best for stargazing
|
Pros
Strong 20x magnification ocular lenses for long-distance viewing.
|
Cons
At around 5 lbs, they may feel in your hands heavy after a while.
|
We ranked Nikon Action EX Extreme #11 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
Digital Camera World
large and heavy binoculars are a good value way of getting closer to your subject
|
Pros
12x magnification
Waterproof and fog-proof design
Good value price
|
Cons
Heavy to hold for long periods
Some edge distortion
Lens caps are easy to lose
|
Space Exploration and Astronomy
A reliable binocular model, but one you need a tripod for
|
Pros
Wide field of view
Clear, crisp observations
|
Cons
Heavy, tripod required
Slight field curvature
|
T3
Heavyweight binoculars that deliver spectacular views
|
Pros
Clear and sharp
Shock-resistant and waterproof
|
Cons
Bulky and heavy
Lacks close focusing
|
We ranked Vixen Binoculars SG 2.1×42 #12 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
Digital Camera World
These wide-angle Vixen SG 2.1x42 binoculars are a niche purchase but give you a unique perspective on the night sky
|
Pros
Unique field of view
Incredible depth of field
Portable size
|
Cons
Lack magnification
Edges are very blurry
Lose-able lens caps
|
Space Exploration and Astronomy
Let these Galilean-design binoculars give you a new way of looking at the night sky
|
Pros
Very easy to keep steady
Widefield 3D stargazing
Small, light and easy to carry
|
Cons
Very low magnification
Blurry at edges
Lens caps are easy to lose
|
T3
The best binoculars for immersive stargazing
|
Pros
Retain a ‘big sky’ view
Lightweight and portable
|
Cons
Not ideal for general purpose viewing
Lens caps easily mislaid
Weedy magnification factor
Softening of detail in edges of frame
|
We ranked Celestron Trailseeker ED #13 in September 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
We ranked Nocs Provisions Standard Issue #14 in September 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
GearJunkie
Best Compact Binoculars
|
Pros
Compact without compromising optic power
durable/waterproof construction
lifetime warranty
|
Cons
Expensive for optical power — paying for size
|
We ranked Nikon Prostaff 3S #15 in September 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
Digital Camera World
The best binoculars overall, with rugged construction and fog-proofing
|
Pros
Big-name brand at a modest price
Rugged rubber armor construction
O-ring sealed
|
Cons
Not premium optical quality
|
T3
Another excellent pair of all-rounders
|
Pros
O-ring sealed to keep moisture out
Reasonable price
Rubber construction for comfortable grip
|
Cons
Requires a steady pair of hands, or rest, for optimum viewing
Provided lens caps a bit flimsy and easy to lose
|
We ranked Celestron SkyMaster Pro #16 in September 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
Digital Camera World
Great binoculars for astronomy and star-gazing, best used on a tripod
|
Pros
High magnification and large lenses
Rugged rubber armour
|
Cons
Big and bulky
-Better on a tripod
|
T3
The biggest and best binoculars for stargazing
|
Pros
Brilliant design
Amazing deep-sky images
Easier to use than a telescope
|
Cons
Narrow field of view
Too heavy to hold
|
We ranked Opticron Savanna WP Porro #17 in September 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
Digital Camera World
The best binoculars for kids, both light and waterproof
|
Pros
Compact and light – fit in a sling bag
No eyestrain for kids as young as seven
|
Cons
Not the most powerful binos
Lacks features like anti fogging
|
money.com
Best binoculars for kids
|
Pros
Minimum 50 mm interpupillary distance (IPD) is ideal to reduce eye strain.
|
Cons
Lacks anti-fogging.
|
We ranked Celestron UpClose G2 20x50 #18 in September 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Binoculars” rankings.
Digital Camera World
These Celestron UpClose G2 10x50 binoculars are a good value for beginners keen on wildlife, the night sky and more
|
Pros
Bright and colorful images
Lightweight design
Easy to use
Affordable price
|
Cons
Lens caps are easy to lose
Slight edge distortion
Not much eye relief
|
T3
A good budget bino for beginners
|
Pros
Wide field of view
Easy to use and adjust
Very low price
|
Cons
Average build quality
Distortion at the edges
No eye relief
|