Best Budget Binoculars Reviews

Buying a set of high caliber binoculars is a really huge investment. The binoculars that you choose must, therefore, measure up to what you actually pay for them.

Best-Budget-Binoculars-Reviews

Skip the details, just show me the best ones

Carson RD Series 8x42mm Open-Bridge Waterproof High Definition Full Sized Binoculars (RD-842)
Bushnell Trophy Binoculars, 8x32
Avalon 8x32 Mini HD Binoculars (Platinum)
Simmons 899431 Prosport Series Binoculars, 10x42 black Roof Twist Up Eyecups
Nikon T118-24X25WH Aculon T11 8-24x25mm Compact Zoom Binocular,White 16008 - International Version
Make/Model:Carson RD Series 8×42
Make/Model:Bushnell Trophy 8x32
Make/Model:Avalon 8×32 Mini HD
Make/Model:Simmons ProSport Series 10x42
Make/Model:Nikon ACULON T11 8-24×25
Magnification: 8x
Magnification: 8x
Magnification: 8x
Magnification: 10x
Magnification: 8-24x
Objective Diameter: 42mm
Objective Diameter: 32mm
Objective Diameter: 32mm
Objective Diameter: 42mm
Objective Diameter: 25mm
IPD: 58-77mm
IPD: 58-76mm
IPD: 56-74mm
IPD: 57-76mm
IPD: 56-72mm
FOV: 371 ft / 7.1°
FOV: 390 ft / 7.4°
FOV: 362 ft / 6.9°
FOV: 303 ft / 5.8°
FOV: 242 ft / 4.6°
Prism: Roof BaK-4 (with Silver Mirror Coatings)
Prism: Roof BaK-4
Prism: Roof BaK-4
Prism: Roof BaK-4
Prism: Roof BaK-4
Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated (FMC)
Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated (FMC)
Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated (FMC)
Lens Coating: Multi-Coated (MC)
Lens Coating: Multi-Coated (MC)
Eye-relief: 17mm
Eye-relief: 16.5mm
Eye-relief: 15mm
Eye-relief: 16mm
Eye-relief: 13mm @8x
Eyecups: Twist-up
Eyecups: Twist-up
Eyecups: Twist-up
Eyecups: Twist-up
Eyecups: Twist-up
Weight: 617g
Weight: 439g
Weight: 416g
Weight: 675g
Weight: 305g
Price: Under $200
Price: Under $100
Price: Under $200
Price: Under $100
Price: Under $200
Carson RD Series 8x42mm Open-Bridge Waterproof High Definition Full Sized Binoculars (RD-842)
Make/Model:Carson RD Series 8×42
Magnification: 8x
Objective Diameter: 42mm
IPD: 58-77mm
FOV: 371 ft / 7.1°
Prism: Roof BaK-4 (with Silver Mirror Coatings)
Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated (FMC)
Eye-relief: 17mm
Eyecups: Twist-up
Weight: 617g
Price: Under $200
Bushnell Trophy Binoculars, 8x32
Make/Model:Bushnell Trophy 8x32
Magnification: 8x
Objective Diameter: 32mm
IPD: 58-76mm
FOV: 390 ft / 7.4°
Prism: Roof BaK-4
Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated (FMC)
Eye-relief: 16.5mm
Eyecups: Twist-up
Weight: 439g
Price: Under $100
Avalon 8x32 Mini HD Binoculars (Platinum)
Make/Model:Avalon 8×32 Mini HD
Magnification: 8x
Objective Diameter: 32mm
IPD: 56-74mm
FOV: 362 ft / 6.9°
Prism: Roof BaK-4
Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated (FMC)
Eye-relief: 15mm
Eyecups: Twist-up
Weight: 416g
Price: Under $200
Simmons 899431 Prosport Series Binoculars, 10x42 black Roof Twist Up Eyecups
Make/Model:Simmons ProSport Series 10x42
Magnification: 10x
Objective Diameter: 42mm
IPD: 57-76mm
FOV: 303 ft / 5.8°
Prism: Roof BaK-4
Lens Coating: Multi-Coated (MC)
Eye-relief: 16mm
Eyecups: Twist-up
Weight: 675g
Price: Under $100
Nikon T118-24X25WH Aculon T11 8-24x25mm Compact Zoom Binocular,White 16008 - International Version
Make/Model:Nikon ACULON T11 8-24×25
Magnification: 8-24x
Objective Diameter: 25mm
IPD: 56-72mm
FOV: 242 ft / 4.6°
Prism: Roof BaK-4
Lens Coating: Multi-Coated (MC)
Eye-relief: 13mm @8x
Eyecups: Twist-up
Weight: 305g
Price: Under $200

Buying Guide for Best Budget Binoculars

Binoculars are pricey devices to buy. Because of this you always want a design that’s extra stable and more specifically that will add you more value for your money. In short, you need to get what you have actually paid for.

This simple guide that we are going to give here will allow you to get the best value binocular without having to spend so much time moving around. Indeed, you can even use it to pick one of the top-rated designs that we have reviewed here.

  • Magnification Power

The two numbers on any binoculars that are denoted by (8X10) for example; will stand for two things. The magnification power (8X) and the size of the objective lens diameter (10mm). Depending on what you are using your binoculars for it is important that you choose the best powers here.

  • Size of Field of View

High powered binoculars will give you a good field of view depending on the size of their objective lens diameter. Large aperture size will guarantee more light into the best compact binoculars and in turn give you great pictures, and will also mean a larger field of view for a superior viewing experience.

  • The Prisms Designs

We have so many technologies that you can make use of when choosing your Best Budget Binoculars for the Money. One of them is the type of prisms. We have porro and roof prisms. They are both ideals for providing the best images. However, porro is slightly affordable as compared to roof prism designs.

  • Best Eye Relief

Eye relief referrers to the exact distance that the images you are viewing are projected from your binocular lens to their main focal point (point of focus). A good binocular should be able to provide you someone that wears glasses and someone that doesn’t with the same viewing experience.

  • Diopter Control

Many value binoculars should also allow you to make the right focus adjustments on one eye piece. The knob that provides this functionality is called the diopter adjuster. It is designed to compensate for the differences in your eyes so that you can get a clear cut image experience.

  • Image Stabilization

This is designed in order to counter the unsteadiness that natural body limbs such as hands will come with too. It makes use of gyroscopes and other liquid filled prisms in order to stabilize the binoculars and autocorrect its positioning. Any good binocular should have it.

It’s time to choose your best budget binocular brands. You have all the facts and tips that you might need and more importantly a number of top rated comprehensive reviews to go with too. The choice is yours to make; but we suggest choosing any of these top designs that we have given you today.

Carson RD Series 8×42 Binoculars

Carson RD Series 8x42mm Open-Bridge Waterproof High Definition Full Sized Binoculars (RD-842)
  • Lightweight Full Sized Open-Bridge Binoculars Magnification: 8x Power Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm Color: Green
  • Nitrogen Filled and O-Ring Sealed Making Them Both Waterproof and Fogproof Great Lightweight Binoculars for Bird Watching, Hiking, Sight-Seeing, Travel, Sporting Events, Concerts and Other Outdoor Adventures
  • BAK-4 Prisms and Fully Multi-Coated Optics Ensure Bright, Sharp and Crystal Clear Images Feature Extra Long Twist Down Eyecups Tripod Mountable
  • Field of View: 372 feet at 1,000 yards Eye Relief: 17mm Close Focus: 9.8 feet Weight: 1.4 lbs. Dimensions (LxWxH): 5.25 inch x 5.6 inch x 2.0 inch

Carson optics has a series of binoculars covering a wide range of price and quality. Among them, the RD series binoculars fall in the mid-range category. However, in terms of the quality and features, they will certainly beat many other upper mid-range binoculars.

The other series includes:

Our review team tested and analyzed the ‘Carson RD 8×42’ full-sized model which is a good combination of quality and price.

Let me break it down for you.

Personal Experience with the Carson RD, 8X42

Optical Performance
  • BAK-4 Roof Prism Technology

The BAK-4 barium crown glass has been used in this roof prism design. Its use, therefore, provides this binocular with crystal clear images which is important if you need a great watching experience.

  • Fully Multi-Coated Optics

All glass surfaces have been treated with antireflection coatings to ensures bright, sharp, and high contrast images. The technology uses multiple layers of anti-reflective coatings to provide such an experience. That’s why this binocular is ideal for birders, safari, hiking, and sight-seeing.

  • Wide VoF

These binoculars provide with 371 feet field of view at 1,000 yards. This is wide enough to keep track of the object under view. Wider VoF, larger objective diameter, and a standard magnification power are great at tracking objects and locking them under view.

  • Magnification and Objective Lens

These Open-Bridge Binoculars have an ideal magnification power of 8X. In addition to that, it also has a larger objective lens diameter of 42 mm. too. Apparently, most experts agree that 8X magnification is the best for anyone who needs a smoother watching experience.

Exterior Features

  • The Open Bridge Design

Carson RD Series 8×42 has an open bridge body design, which I really liked on these. The open bridge design makes the barrels open to hold comfortably.

  • Polycarbonate Chassis

The body is made of a polycarbonate frame which is covered by the finely textured exterior rubber coating. The polycarbonate frame makes these binoculars little more affordable which would otherwise be costlier.

  • Nitrogen Filled and O-ring Sealed

Nitrogen filling and O-ring Technology is great for preventing internal condensation in damp/dewy conditions. Finding it here is good. With this technology, the binoculars will enjoy a high-end waterproof and fog-proof touch.

  • Twist-up Eye-Cups

The twist-up eye-cups on these binoculars rotates smoothly, but I would probably have preferred a little more friction.

Bushnell Trophy Binoculars, 8×32

Bushnell Trophy Binoculars, 8x32
  • Beautiful design and durability built to last
  • Fully multicoated optics deliver ultra-bright, razor-sharp images
  • Dura-Grip rubber-armored housing with soft-touch thumb grips
  • O-ring-sealed and nitrogen-purged for waterproof/fogproof durability
  • Fast focus system; flip covers for objective lenses

If you are looking for the best budget binoculars, what should you focus on?

  • The price of the binoculars
  • Minimum optical performance
  • Design and durable construction

With these factors, you will have a high-end binocular that fits within your afford. That’s important. You can’t compromise quality just because you are working on a budget. There are many cool high-end bins out there that are quite affordable.

One binocular which meets this standard is the Bushnell Trophy Binoculars 8X32. It is a great work of quality at an awesome price.

Before I move on, let me mention that Amazon.com is offering a 50% discount on the Bushnell Trophy Bino Series. This makes the deal much better.

Personal Experience with the Bushnell Trophy, 8X32

Optical Performance
  • Prism Glass

Unlike the cheap models, this one comes with a BaK-4 prism glass. This is a high-density barium crown glass with better optical quality. It is good and cooler than other glass types. The resultant image is, therefore, crystal clear.

  • Fully Multi-Coated Optics

Bushnell Trophy also uses the “Fully Multi-Coated” lenses. This is a technique that uses multiple layers of the anti-reflective coatings. The coatings are used on every air-to-glass surface to increase light transmission and eventually deliver the brighter and high-contrast image.

  • Magnification and Objective Lens

The 8X magnification power and an objective lens diameter of 32mm make it easy to lock your target. It works better with the FoV too. Yet it is the weight that I loved the most as you can hold the device for long without any signs of fatigue.

Exterior Features

  • Fog-proofing

Again, I found out that this device uses the “Nitrogen Purged Fog-Proofing” technology. This technique uses dry nitrogen gas inside the compartment. The mechanism ensures that the interior optical surfaces of the device won’t fog in case of rapid temperature changes or humidity.

Avalon 8×32 Mini HD Binoculars (Platinum)

Another one of my favorite binocular models is the Avalon 8×32 Mini HD Binoculars (Platinum). It is cheaper comparing with similar configured binoculars. This particular model could be the perfect choice for women uses (and off-course for men uses too).

I have a few reasons of my own.

  • These binoculars have an ideal IPD range (56-74mm) and cool white color that most women would like.
  • It is ideal for people who is searching cheaper binoculars but still want a good performance.
  • It is super-light and even kids wouldn’t find it hard to hang around their necks for long

So why do we rate the Avalon 8×32 Mini HD Binoculars as one of the best? Let me take you through.

Personal Experience with the Avalon 8×32 Mini HD (Platinum)

Optical Performance
  • Roof Prism Bak-4

Avalon Mini uses the top-rated Bak-4 roof prism technology. BaK-4 prisms transmit more light and hence brighter and sharper images.

  • Fully Multi-Coated

First, this device uses “Fully Multi-Coated” lenses. In short, it has employed the use of multiple layers of anti-reflective coatings in every single one of its lenses. By doing so, the Avalon 8×32 Mini HD has managed to increase light transmission and finally deliver brighter and high-contrast images.

  • 8x Magnification 

Avalon 8×32 Mini HD Binoculars use the standardized 8X magnification power. This magnification is ideal if you want a smooth experience for every image that you watch. The magnification power is superior if you intend to get a view within range.

  • 32 mm Objective Lens

It comes with 32 mm objective lenses. Thus, provides you with a wider area under view. Wider objective lens diameter also provides you with an easy time when tracking your objects as the area you can view is often wide.

Wider objective lens diameter also allows adequate light to go through your binoculars. The end results will be brighter images.

Exterior features
  • Center Focus System

Center focus system uses a “wheel” or “knob” that’s located centrally on the pair of Avalon binocular. The knob is large in size and has serrated grooves. To put your image in focus, the knob is to be adjusted by turning until you get a clear image.

  • Waterproof Design

Avalon is nitrogen purged. This makes it one of the best optics if you live in areas with low temperatures. If you experience light drizzles a lot or foggy mornings, you can also get this tiny binocular. It withstands the toughest weather and performs well under rugged environments.

  • Ultra-Light

According to the Avalon Optics website, the Mini HD binocular weighs only 416 grams. I got 418 grams when I tested, but that’s not so much of a difference.

Nonetheless, I loved the part where it fitted perfectly inside my jacket’s pocket and my car glove compartment.

  • Warranty

This product is also covered under the Avalon’s VIP Lifetime Warranty. So you never have to worry about any manufacturing defects.

NOTE: One thing that I noticed though is that the attached lens covers have a tendency to block the bottom of the view if you don’t open them fully.

Simmons Prosport Roof 10×42 Binoculars

Simmons 899431 Prosport Series Binoculars, 10x42 black Roof Twist Up Eyecups
  • Magnification & objective (mm): 10x42
  • Prism system: roof
  • Lens coating: multi
  • Multi-coated, high quality optical glass
  • BaK-4 prisms for brilliant light transmission

Simmons, a US based company, has been known for high-quality rifle-scopes and binoculars. The Simmons Prosport Roof 10×42 Binoculars is no exception; and here is why I say that.

  • It is designed with the ardent hunter and also sports fanatic in mind
  • Simmons ProSport gives you a strikingly clear view any time
  • You get sharp contrast and very rich details while viewing
  • It offers a tough construction that prevents damages and lengthens the lifespan

In short, with the Simmons Prosport Roof 10×42, you not only have a compact and reliable device, but also a rugged touch at the best price. So what features add up to these cool advantages? Here is what my experience with this device revealed.

Nitrogen Purged

Most regular binos that come at about the same price are not nitrogen purged. However, Simmons Prosport is. This makes this top device waterproof and also fog-proof.  And in case of any rapid temperature changes, the performance of the device won’t be affected.

Multi-Coated Optics

Simmons Prosport uses “High-Quality Multi-Coated” lenses. This mechanism employs multiple layers of anti-reflective coatings to increase light transmission. The result is a brighter and high-contrast image.

However, it should be noted that this is not a case of “Fully Multi-Coated” Lenses. While in the FMC all lenses are coated, with the Multi-Coating only some are coated. Nonetheless, it still offers better quality than devices that lack any coating at all.

BaK-4 Prism Glass

Regular optics will use the low-quality BK7 glass on their prisms. Simmons Prosport, on the other hand, uses the BaK-4 prism glass. BaK-4 prism glass has higher density and better optical quality. Its use, therefore, results in crystal clear images.

Field of View – FoV

More importantly, a 10X magnification power and a 42 mm objective lens diameter. This combination leads to a 303 /1000 YD FoV. At this FoV, tracking your object and locking it under your view becomes very easy. You won’t have to move at all and the central focus system will also work well.

Adapt to Tripod

Let me also say that, for a budget binocular, getting an inbuilt stabilizer is not easy. And the best that ideal devices can offer here is an adaptation to the tripod. This has an equal effect and offers reliable stability too.

Tough Encase

This ProSport Binocular is encased in tough and highly durable rubber armor. This is super cool at preventing breakages in case of an accidental fall. Apart from the protection, it also offers a no-slip grip for any type of weather conditions.

Nikon ACULON T11 8-24×25 Zoom Binoculars

Nikon ACULON T11 8-24x25 Zoom Binoculars Blue ACT11BL
  • 8 to 24 Zoom Power
  • BaK4 High Index Prisms
  • Lightweight, Slim Design
  • Smooth Central Focus Knob
  • Exclusive Zoom Capability

I usually hate zoom binoculars because they can’t produce high quality images most of the time. However, these Nikon ACULON T11 8-24×25 Zoom Binoculars are much better than all other zoom binoculars that I have tested so far. This is probably one of the finest and smallest pair of zoom binoculars.

I’m really amazed with its ultra-sharp image quality and enhanced brightness. However, it gives slightly fuzzy image when you zoom it in its highest power (24x) at in low-light and long-range conditions. Even so I think it produces very high quality images; thanks to the fully multi-coated optics!

The center focus mechanism is very smooth so you can easily adjust the magnification. Also it gives you the option to quickly switch between 8, 12, 16 and 24 times magnification with a simple push of a finger.

This pocket-sized pair measures only 4.8 x 4.3 inches and weighs around 10.8 oz. They come with 25 mm objective lens diameter and advanced Bak-4 porro prisms.

The body is well-balanced and lightweight and easy to grip even during periods of prolonged viewing. The rugged protective armor can handle even the most demanding days in the field.

The 13mm eye relief at 8x magnification is very useful for those who wear eyeglasses. The twist and slide rubber eye cups facilitate easy positioning of the eyes to provide comfortable viewing.

It comes with a pair of durable lens cover so you can protect lenses. The case and neck strap are also nice and durable, making storage and transport so easy.

The Nikon ACULON T11 8-24×25 zoom binoculars are no doubt designed for some of the most demanding outdoor activities including hunting, on safari trips, bird watching adventures, hiking, or if you intend to go for a sporting event or even concert so that you never miss the moment that counts.

Pros

  • Excellent image quality and sharpness
  • Pocket size zoom binoculars
  • Smooth central focusing knob
  • Non-slip rubber armor

Cons

  • Slightly fuzzy at its highest zoom range (at 24x magnification)

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