10×42 Binoculars for Bird Watching

Binoculars come in different designs, price points, capabilities and sizes. Each type is specifically designed for a particular function. For instance, the 10×42 is considered to be the ideal configuration for bird watching. You may also like: thermal binoculars

However, if it is your first time to buy a binocular, you will find a lot of technical terms and products that might confuse you. Fortunately, we have already done the dirty work and compiled some of the best 10×42 binoculars on the market. This will help you decide on the right binocular that will fit your budget.

The best 10×42 binoculars for bird watching

i. Vortex Optics Diamondback Classic Binoculars 10×42

This is one of the top rated 10×42 binoculars on the market. The lenses are multi-coated, which helps to keep the glasses from fogging.

One of the most noticeable features of this binocular is the phase-corrected prisms. Normally, when light reflects off the prism, it is divided into two beams which affect the clarity of the image. However, the phase-corrected prism keeps both beams on a single phase shift. Even though it helps to increase clarity, it has a glare during dusk when the sun is setting.

Pros

• Rubber armoured
• Multi-coated lenses
• Waterproof and fog proof

Cons

• Glare at dusk

ii. Upland Optics Perception HD 10×42 Binoculars

Even though this binocular can be difficult to focus, it has an extra-low-density dispersion glass to give a crisp, clear vision. In most cases, glasses tend to fog in harsh weather conditions. The Upland Optics Perception HD 10×42 binocular features a fog proof coating to ensure the vision remains clear.

The rubber body does not only offer a good grip but also make the binocular waterproof. This means you can go for a bird-watching excursion even on water bodies. In addition, the binocular also comes with a carrying case, neck strap and lens protectors and cleaning cloth.

Pros

• Low-density dispersion glass
• Waterproof and fog proof
• Flip-down protector

Cons

• Difficult to focus

iii. Celestron 71347 Outland X 10×42 Binocular

If you are looking for a budget 10×42 option, you should consider the Celestron 71347 Outland X. Even though it is not top of the line, it performs decently and comes with a carrying case.

Although it features multi-coated optics, it does not have a phase –shit coating. As a result, the quality of the image may appear slightly hazy, and colours may look a bit dull. On the bright side, the binocular comes with twist-up eyecups which allow the user to adjust the eyepiece to fit their eyes.

Pros

• Multi-coated optics
• Twist-up eyecups
• Carrying case

Cons

• Does not have phase coating

iv. Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Roof Prism Binocular

The first thing you will notice with the Bushnell H2O binoculars is the rubber-coated armour. It offers sufficient grip and makes them ideal for tough outdoor use. This binocular is completely sealed and filled with nitrogen to prevent fogging even when going for extreme excursions

The eyecups are padded with soft rubber and are rotatable. On the downside, the caps are not permanently attached to the binocular. This makes it very easy to lose them.

Pros

• Sufficient grip
• BAK 4 multicoated roof prism
• Soft rubber eyecups

Cons

• Unattached eyecups

Conclusion

A good pair of binoculars is a great companion for bird watching excursions. However, it is not easy to get the best quality. Hopefully, the above information has made it easy to choose the best 10 x 42 binoculars for your needs. Our top pick is Vortex Optics Diamondback Classic Binoculars because it performs exemplary and comes with a rain guard and a deluxe carrying case.