Finding the best binoculars under $50 could be a huge challenge. For starters, there is a belief that for that price, you cannot buy the best quality binoculars. On the contrary, recent changes in the market’s demand and supply have shifted this paradigm to favor the consumer. As a result, you can get decent binoculars for a budget of $50, which surprisingly, can perform better than expected.
They may not have all the high-end features you can find in the expensive binoculars, but they do offer all the basics you’d need in fully functioning binoculars. From sleek designs to improved clarity, there is always a pair of binoculars you can buy under $50.
Best Binoculars Under $50 (Review)
The quality of the binoculars is determined by its magnification, lens quality, objective lens diameter, and waterproofing if you’re planning to spend most of your time outdoors. In this guide, we have compiled a list of some of the best binoculars under $50, and highlighted what qualifies them to be in this list.
1. Occer 12x25 Binoculars
Why It’s Great
Basic Things
The binoculars offer clear and a wider view of the field due to the 25mm objective lens. The zoom capabilities are amazing because of the 12 x magnifications, which is more than enough for an outdoor binocular.
Design
With this binocular, you’re guaranteed 273ft/1000ft wider field of view due to the excellent magnification and objective lens capabilities. This will come in handy during a hunt or bird viewing. To improve on the clarity of your view, this binocular contains premium BAK4 prism and FMC Broadband coating which depicts realism.
Performance
This is where this pair of binoculars shine. It utilizes the optical FMC multiplayer broadband green film in the objective lens, with the BAK4 prism covering the unit, while a blue FMC coating can be found on the eyepiece-optical. This combination helps to reflect the light to the eyes, which helps to improve the image quality and your view.
It’s also designed to fit eye glass wearers by pulling down the rubber eyepieces, which brings the lens closer, which in return, improves their view. For non-glass wearers, raising the eye cups will help to gain a more focused view of the target. Equipped with 15 mm large eyepieces, this binocular will give you a wider and a crystal-clear view compared to others in its class.
Why We Liked It
The outstanding 12 x magnification allows you to see over 1000ft, which is further you can see with this pair of binoculars compared to others in its price range. Its ability to reflect the light to the eyes gives you a blur-free image of your target, even at a greater distance. It’s also small in size, making it easy to carry and package while outdoors. You can take this binocular with you on the hunt even when it’s raining due to its waterproof capabilities.
Why You Should Buy
The image and range quality of this binocular is amazing due to the eyepiece-optical and a 25 mm objective lens.
The adjustable eye cups make it possible for you to use this pair of binoculars even when you have your sunglasses on. The nonslip rubber armor helps to keep it tightly in your grip when in the field, with the plastic casing protecting the delicate inner parts from impact or a fall. You can fit it into your pocket due to its tiny size.
Pros:
Cons:
2. Adorrgon 12x42 Binoculars
Why It’s Great
Basic Things
The 12x magnification makes it possible for you to see objects from a longer distance. Since it weighs only 1.1 pounds, you can hold it comfortably with one arm, which comes in handy if you need to use your other hand to record your research. Its clarity is enhanced to make it possible for you to view a clear face from 650ft away. This is more than you can find in other binoculars in its class.
Although not able to operate in total darkness, you can still use it in low lighting areas, such as undergrowth and in a clustered forest.
Design
The fully multi-coated lens combined with the large 16.5mm BAK4 prism guarantees a HD vision with crisp images.
For impact and shock resistance, the binoculars have a durable structure that is reinforced with a rubber armor and anti-slip grip. It also comes with one eyepiece, a neck strap, one cleaning cloth, a carrying bag, and a lens protection cover.
Performance
The 42mm objective lens works together with the 12x magnification capability to give you an open view. With this binocular, you’re guaranteed to see a clear face from 650ft away, with little distortions.
Equipped with an 18mm large eyepiece, you’ll get larger clear images that comes with the large eyepieces. It’s also 2 times powerful compared to the 12mm eyepiece binoculars. The images are always in HD partly because of the 16.5mm BAK4 prism. You can also use it in low lighting areas such as concerts.
Why We Liked It
This binocular might be huge in size, but it only weighs 1.1 pound, which is 0.6 pounds lighter than the 10x50 binoculars. The 12x magnification and 42mm large objective lens allows you a clear and HD image of your target.
To improve on the clarity of your target, the binoculars is equipped with fully multi-coated lens and BAK4 Prism that improves the quality optics and HD vision. It’s very durable and capable to withstand shock and impact, which makes it perfect for hunting, bird viewing, traveling, and other outdoor activities.
Why You Should Buy
For starters, it outperforms every binoculars in its class through clear imagery, an impressive 1000ft distance viewing, 18mm large eyepiece which gets you a full HD view of your target, and the capability to see the target’s face at an astonishing 650ft distance. The reinforced structure and waterproof capabilities give it a longer lifespan.
Pros:
Cons:
3. SkyGenius 10 x 50 Binoculars
Why It’s Great
Basic Things
For starters, the 10x powerful magnification and 50mm large objective lens offers you up to 367/1000yds of clear field view. This professional powerful binocular is perfect for fast moving objects such as bird viewing, hunting, documenting events, and traveling.
The adjustable rubber-covered eyepieces can offer eye relief for different people regardless of their sight. For eyeglass wearers, raising eye cups will help to adjust the eye relief and make them more comfortable.
Design
The binocular wins in terms of design. The multi-layer coating coupled with the design of the Aspherical lenses helps to improve the light transmission which in return helps to improve the image brightness and contrast, giving off a crystal-clear image of your target.
The focus knob which is located at the center, makes it possible to adjust your binoculars and is adaptable to tripod. Equipped with the anti-slip and the casing design gives it a sleek look. The structure is covered with odorless rubber armor which protects the fragile inner structure from shock and impact.
Performance
This binocular has managed to stay ahead of every other binocular in its class due to its performances. You can easily focus on your target because of the corrective optical coating that helps to minimize distortion while improving the color fidelity.
To adjust the imbalance of both eyes, the binoculars is equipped with the Diopter System. As a result, you end up with a product capable of producing crystal clear images even of those of moving targets.
Why We Liked It
The fact that you can readjust the focus on your target is one of the reasons that won us over. The 10x magnification power and the 50mm large objective lens can allow you to see fast moving targets, which make it perfect for a safari or bird watching.
You can also mount it on a tripod to free your hands, something that is not seen in many binoculars. The Diopter System is a great addition as it helps to adjust the imbalance vision of both eyes, making this binocular unique.
Why You Should Buy
This product offers great value for money since you get all the premium features of high-end binoculars at a fraction of the cost. If you enjoy hunting, bird watching, sports activities, and other fast-paced outdoor activities, then this binoculars is for you since it utilizes the 10x50 power to make clear viewing at high speed a possibility.
The adjustable eye cups are perfect if you prefer wearing eyeglasses or sunglasses when you’re out. You’ll get excellent image brightness due to improved lighting that is caused by the multi-layer coating and the design of the Aspherical lenses. Overall, you end up with a fully-functioning pair of binoculars capable of competing with the premium binoculars, but only paying less than $50.
Pros:
Cons:
4. Hontry 10x25 Binoculars
Why You Should Buy
Basic Things
An impressive 10x magnification power along the 25mm objective lens gives you more clarity and better images. It also allows a 362ft/1000yds which provide you a chance to view objects at a greater distance without a need to adjust the position. It’s palm-sized and weighs less than a pound, making it easy to carry and pack.
Design
The design of this binocular is something to admire with fully multi-coated optics contributing to sharp images and brighter view. There are multiple coatings around the all glass surface which contributes to 96.48% of light transmission. The result is a crystal clear and non-chromatic aberration.
The foldable design that weighs only 0.6lb is perfect for a day out since it takes little room and it’s very easy to carry and operate. For easy storage, you will get a simple-designed carry bag that protects it from dust and other impurities.
Performance
Performance-wise, this binocular stands out from the rest in its class for several reasons; first is the 10x25 power which results in clear and distortion-free images. For a HD viewing, the use of multi-coated optics around the all glass surface helps to increase light transmission, which in return results in sharp and clear images. And for accurate focus, the dioptric adjustment ring coupled with the ergonomic design reinforced by armor rubber helps to keep the binocular steady when in use.
Why We Liked It
Everything about this product is amazing, such as the small, light, and foldable design which makes carrying and using it a breeze. There is also the issue with the 10x magnification power and the 25mm objective lens that provides you with 362ft/1000yds field view, which is more than enough for a hunt, bird watching, or other outdoor activities. The all glass surfaces are protected by the rubber armor which acts as a shock and impact absorber. For spectacle wearers, the inclusion of a rugged construction rubber eye relief provides extra comfort.
Why You Should Buy
If you need a palm-sized but powerful binocular, then this product it’s for you. The powerful magnification is enough for any outdoor activity such as traveling, hiking, and bird watching. The design scores high points for using rugged rubber construction.
The performance is top notch with the binocular capable of producing HD images free of distortion. Accurate focusing allows you to capture clear images of high speed objects such as birds. It makes a perfect gift for adults and kids all the same.
Pros:
Cons:
5. Stilnend 12x50 Binoculars
Why It’s Great
Basic Things
The binocular is equipped with 12x power magnification and 50mm objective lens, which offers you a 114/1000m open and clear field view. With such power, you can view fast moving objects making it perfect for a hunt, bird viewing, and other sports events. The waterproofed casing also makes it ideal for any outdoor activities.
Design
The binocular is easy to operate and focus partly because of the center focus knob. To minimize distortion and to improve color fidelity, the binocular is equipped with corrective optical coating that works together with the Diopter System to adjust the imbalance the vision of the two eyes.
The odorless rubber armor seals the binocular shut preventing moisture from passing through. The rubber armor provides added protection to this item through wear-resistance, anti-slip grip, and anti-shock capabilities.
Performance
For HD superior optics, this item comes with a large BAK4 prism, 18mm blue film eyepieces, and an exceptional 50mm fully multi-layer coating objective lens. The result is crisp, brighter, and clear images. The inclusion of aspheric lenses improves lighting, making it possible to use in low lighting areas.
Why We Liked It
For starters, the clear, brighter, and crisp images, is one of the areas that this binocular wins. It’s easy to focus by adjusting the central focus knob, hence giving off clear view free of distortion.
The 12x power magnification coupled with an impressive 50mm objective lens gives you a clear field of view, making it perfect for many outdoor activities such as rock climbing and hunting.
Why You Should Buy
This binocular has some features that can be found in high-end binoculars. If you’re looking for clear and distortion free images, then this item is for you. By combining BAK 4 prism with 18mm blue film eyepiece, you get amazing HD view of your target, whereas the Diopter System allows you to adjust the imbalance vision of both eyes.
Pros:
Cons:
6. Aurosports 10x25 Binoculars
Why It’s Great
Basic Things
The 10x power magnification and 25mm objective lens offers you a wide clear field view of up to 1000 yards, and able to see fast moving targets clearly, making it perfect for bird viewing and hunting. Weighing only 8.8 ounces, this binocular is one of the lightest out there.
Design
Not only does the foldable casing make it easy to store and carry, but it also adds to its aesthetic look, and improving its appeal. The rubber armor seals the casing shut to prevent moisture and water from damaging the delicate inner parts. The rubber casing also acts as a shock absorber and offers impact-resistance which gives this item a longer lifespan. The position of the central focus knob makes it easy to operate with one arm.
Performance
You get a wider and a clearer field view because of the 12x powerful magnification and 25mm objective lens. For crisp and clear images, the manufacturer has utilized the fully coated lenses and Porro Prism. The aspheric lens allows you to use this item in low lighting areas, making it perfect for concerts and football games. You can adjust the focus through the central focus knob.
Why We Liked It
For starters, it’s small in size and weighs an impressive 8.8 ounces. Secondly, it has an amazing magnification power for a product of its size, which gives you clear details of the target from 1000 yards out. It utilizes Porro Prism and the fully multi-coated lenses for clear and crisp images.
Why You Should Buy
It’s very easy to use and operate. It takes little space and you can carry it in your pocket. The magnification power is amazing for game watching and football games. It’s a perfect gift for father and son.
Pros
Cons
6. Usogood 12X50 Binoculars
Why It’s Great
Basic Things
The 12x magnification and 50mm objective lens offers a 374ft/1000yds clear open field view, making it possible to see fast moving objects clearly. With 15.5mm eye relief, eyeglass and sunglass wearers can use it comfortably. The waterproof capabilities make it perfect for outdoor activities.
Design
The durable rubber-armored coating gives it longer lifespan while also preventing moisture from penetrating into the binoculars. It also protects the item from shock and impact, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Performance
This is where this binocular scores the most points mainly because of; the use of FMS lens-fully multi-coated optics and larger prism which offers brighter images, breathtaking clarity, and a wide-field view. The 12x magnification and 50mm objective lens allows you to see fast moving objects, making it perfect for bird viewing and hunting. In low lighted areas, the binoculars utilize the multi-coated optics and the BAK4 prism for clear images.
Why We Liked It
The fact that you can mount it on a tripod and comes with a phone adapter is amazing. The outstanding picture quality and clarity even in low lighted areas makes this binocular a force to be reckoned. The powerful magnification with the capability of seeing clear image of your target from 1000 yards is another strong factor.
Why You Should Buy
If you need a pair of binoculars that doesn’t cots much but packs a lot of powerful features only found in high-end binoculars, then this item is for you. The outstanding picture quality, clarity, and better magnification make this item a must have on your list. The ability to see clear images even in low lighted areas is another strong suit of this binocular.
Pros:
Cons:
Buyers Guide: Best Binoculars Under $50
When in the market for a pair of binoculars, it’s critical to know the functions to look for so that you can get only the best quality. Make sure you look for;
Magnification:
It’s the binoculars’ ability to magnify the object. It’s usually denoted by the digit and a letter ‘x.’ The higher the number of magnifications, the better the binoculars. The best binoculars under $50 should have magnification above 10.
Lens Quality And Coating:
The quality of the lens will determine the amount of light reflected. The best lenses will allow a huge amount of light to pass through them, which in return gives you a clear view of the image. The lens should ensure the colors of the object are not washed and the image remains distortion-free.
Objective Lens Diameter:
Like the quality of the lens, the diameter of the lens determines the amount of light that passes through. Bigger diameter objective lenses are perfect for low lighting conditions. The diameter is usually measured in mm, and comes after ‘x.’ An ideal diameter should be 5 times in relation to magnification. Anything above 25mm is good for an outdoor activity.
Field Of View:
The diameter of the area seen through the glasses refers to the field of view. It’s usually expressed in degrees. A larger field of view translates to the larger area you can see.
Eye Strain And The Weight Of The Binoculars
Using the binoculars will tell you if it strains your eyes, and whether its weight is an issue to you. Heavier binoculars are not ideal for prolonged use.
Waterproofing:
You should be able to use your binoculars outdoors during different weather conditions. Waterproofing the binoculars prolongs its lifespan while preventing water, fog, and moisture from penetrating through the item. Waterproofing is denoted by ‘WP.’ High-end binoculars should remain functional after hours of being submerged in the water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: What Should I Look For When Buying Binoculars?
When in the market for binoculars, make sure you look for the magnification power and the objective lens capabilities. These two have an effect to the field of view offered by the binoculars. Any magnification above 10 is ideal for basic outdoor binoculars.
The objective lens above 25mm is great, but the higher the objective lens value, the better. While still focusing on clarity, it’s crucial to consider the quality of the lens, field of view, exit pupil, and Diopter System that helps to adjust imbalance vision of both eyes. BAK4 prism is usually preferred as it contributes to clear and crisp images.
Q2: Which Is Better 8x42 Or 10x50 Binoculars?
The magnification of the binoculars is its ability to zoom and magnify the image. The higher the magnification number, the better the zooming capabilities. In this case, the 10x is better than the 8x.
The lens diameter is very crucial in any binoculars since it allows the amount of light that passes through it. The more the light is able to pass through, the brighter and clearer the image. In this case, the 50mm diameter is preferred to the 42mm diameter since it’s bigger and hence allows a huge amount of light to pass through.
By combining both magnification and the objective lens diameter, we can only conclude that the 10x50 is superior to 8x42 since it can magnify more due to the 10x power magnification and allows lighter to pass through because of the 50mm lens diameter.
Q3: What Is A Decent Pair Of Binoculars?
A decent pair of binoculars will vary depending on the event you’re planning to use it. For instance, for outdoor activities such as bird viewing, hunting, and hiking, opting for binoculars with a magnification between 7x and 10x is ideal. For the same activities, the binoculars should have a field of view between 300ft/1000yds and 374ft/1000yds. The ideal lens diameter for this purpose should be between 25mm and 50mm. The use of BAK4 prism will go a long way to enhance image clarity, while the central focus knob will help to adjust focusing.
For other activities such as sports watching, parting for binocular with magnification between 3x and 5x is ideal. The field of view between 300ft/1000yds and 374/1000yds is preferred. A lens diameter between 25mm and 40mm is great as well. BAK4 prism is an added advantage as well.
Q4: Which Is The Best Magnification For Binoculars?
The magnification will depend on the type of activity you wish to use the binoculars. For huge game hunters, the ideal magnification should be 10x and higher. Some have even preferred using 20x magnification binoculars. For small game hunters and bird watchers, any magnification between 7x and 10x is preferred. Theatregoers and sports watchers can partlet for magnification between 3x and 5x.
Q5: How Far Can 10x42 Binoculars See?
The 10x42 binoculars is capable of seeing up to 351 feet of field view. The 10x magnification allows zooming up to 10 times the size of the object. The larger objective lens allows lighter to pass through, which results in brighter images.
Conclusion
When in the market the best binoculars under $50, it’s best to define the features that you want to simplify your search. Check out this website for more information. Every product mentioned in this article is capable of performing outdoors optimally and contains some features that can be found in high-end binoculars. They have received better ratings from clients who have purchased them, which should show their confidence in their quality.
