What Do the Numbers on Binoculars Mean? A Case Study Among 10x42 vs 10x50 vs 12x50 Binoculars
I can see that a lot of people who are planning to buy a new binocular struggle to understand what the Numbers On Binocular Mean. And trust me, it is really important to fully apprehend these numbers if you want to buy a binocular that suits your needs and utilize it to its fullest. It is totally normal to get confused about the numbers because even i was struggling at first. So here I will give you an overall explanation on the binocular numbers and to do so, I will use 10×42, 10×50, and 12×50 Binoculars as examples.
What Do the 2 Numbers Mean on a Binocular?
The numbers on binoculars tell you their strength (magnification power) and size (objective lens diameter). The first number is the magnification power, and the second number is the diameter (in millimeters) of the objective lenses. For example, in 8×42 binoculars, “8” is the magnification power, and “42” is the diameter of the objective lenses.
The magnification power tells you how much larger an object will appear through the binoculars compared to your naked eye and it is really a game changer. For example, a 10x binocular will make an object appear 10 times closer than it is. The higher the magnification, the narrower the field of view and the harder it is to keep the image steady.
Here take a note that the objective lens diameter tells you how much light the binoculars can gather. The larger the diameter, the brighter the image will be, especially in low-light conditions. However, larger lenses also increase the size and weight of the binoculars.
What Do They Mean by 10×42, 10×50, and 12×50 Binoculars?
Now that you know the purpose of the binocular numbers, here’s one last clear picture for you to completely understand this on a real life scenario when I compare these numbers for 10×42, 10×50, and 12×50 Binoculars:
- 10×42 binoculars have a magnification power of 10 and an objective lens diameter of 42 mm. They are good for birding, wildlife viewing and safaris.
- 10×50 binoculars have a magnification power of 10 and an objective lens diameter of 50 mm. They are better for low-light situations, such as night sky viewing, than 10×42 binoculars.
- 12×50 binoculars have a magnification power of 12 and an objective lens diameter of 50 mm. They have a higher magnification than 10×50 binoculars, but a narrower field of view and more difficulty in holding them steady.
How to calculate Field of view (FoV) for binoculars
To calculate the field of view (FoV) for binoculars, you need to know two things: the magnification power and the objective lens diameter. The FoV is typically expressed in either degrees or feet at a specific distance.
The formula is, divide the angular FoV of one eyepiece by the magnification of the binoculars. For example, let’s calculate the FoV for the given binoculars:
10×42 binoculars FoV:
- Magnification power: 10x
- Objective lens diameter: 42mm
To calculate the FoV in degrees, you can use the formula: FoV = (apparent FoV ÷ magnification)
The apparent field of view for most binoculars is around 60°.
Therefore, FoV = (60° ÷ 10) = 6°
So, the FoV for 10×42 binoculars would be approximately 6 degrees.
10×50 binoculars FoV:
- Magnification power: 10x
- Objective lens diameter: 50mm
Using the same formula:
FoV = (60° ÷ 10) = 6°
The FoV for 10×50 binoculars would also be approximately 6 degrees.
12×50 binoculars FoV:
- Magnification power: 12x
- Objective lens diameter: 50mm
Using the same formula:
FoV = (60° ÷ 12) = 5°
The FoV for 12×50 binoculars would be approximately 5 degrees.
Please note that the values calculated here are approximate and may vary depending on the specific design and characteristics of the binoculars.
Different Use Cases:
10x42 Binoculars | 10x50 Binoculars | 12x50 Binoculars |
Wildlife Observation: The wider field of view and moderate magnification make them ideal for observing birds, animals, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. | Stargazing and Astronomy: The higher image brightness and excellent low-light performance are beneficial for observing celestial objects, making them suitable for astronomy. | Birdwatching: The higher magnification enables birdwatchers to observe fine details and distant birds more closely. |
Hiking and Camping: The compact size and lighter weight make them convenient for outdoor activities, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without added bulk. | Nature Observation: The wider field of view and increased light gathering capability allow for better observation of details in forests, mountains, and landscapes. | Hunting: The increased magnification and moderate light gathering capability help hunters spot and identify game from a greater distance. |
Sporting Events: They are suitable for watching sports events, providing a good balance between magnification and field of view. | Marine Activities: The larger objective lens diameter enhances visibility on open water, making them useful for boating, yachting, or whale watching. | Nature Photography: The higher magnification aids in scouting for wildlife or assessing landscapes before capturing photographs. |
It’s important to note that the specific use cases may vary based on individual preferences and requirements. Consider factors such as intended activities, desired level of detail, and the environments in which the binoculars will be used when choosing the most suitable option for your needs.
Key Differences of Features:
Here’s a comparison table highlighting the key differences between 10×42, 10×50, and 12×50 binoculars:
Attribute | 10x42 Binocular | 10x50 Binocular | 12x50 Binocular |
Magnification | 10x | 10x | 12x |
Objective Lens Diameter | 42 | 50 | 50 |
FoV(at 1000 m) | Narrower (~100 m) | Wider (~100 m) | Wider (~80 m) |
Exit Pupil Diameter | 4.2mm | 5mm | 4.2mm |
Brightness | Good | Better | Slightly lower |
Low Light Performance | Good | Better | Slightly lower |
Weight | Lighter (~600 g) | Heavier (~800 g) | Heavier (~800 g) |
Compactness | More compact | Less compact | Less compact |
Portability | More Portable | Less Portable | Less Portable |
Stability | Less affected by hand shake | More affected by hand shake | More affected by hand shake |
Price | Generally lower ($100-$1000) | Generally higher ($150-$1200) | Generally higher ($200-$1500) |
Key differences on 10x42 vs 10x50 binoculars
The key differences between 10×42 and 10×50 binoculars lie in their objective lens diameter and low-light performance. The 10×42 binoculars have a smaller objective lens diameter of 42mm, while the 10×50 binoculars feature a larger diameter of 50mm. This variation in lens size directly impacts the amount of light they can gather. As a result, the 10×50 binoculars excel in low-light conditions, such as during dawn or dusk, providing a brighter and clearer image compared to the 10×42 binoculars. The larger objective lens diameter of the 10×50 binoculars enhances their light-gathering capability, making them a preferred choice for activities such as stargazing, nature observation in dim lighting, or any scenario where optimal image brightness is crucial. Also, keep in mind that 10×50 is extremely bulky in weight for most cases compared to the 10×42 binoculars.
Key differences on 10x50 vs 12x50 binoculars
The key differences between 10×50 and 12×50 binoculars are their magnification power and resulting field of view. While both have a 50mm objective lens diameter, the 10×50 binoculars provide 10x magnification, maintaining a wider field of view suitable for nature observation and sports events. In contrast, the 12×50 binoculars offer 12x magnification, allowing for closer and more detailed observations but with a narrower field of view. The choice depends on your preferred level of magnification and field of view for your specific use case, whether it’s a broader view or focused detail from a distance.
Key differences on 10x42 vs 12x50 binoculars
The key differences between 10×42 and 12×50 binoculars are in their magnification power and light-gathering ability. 10×42 binoculars offer a moderate 10x magnification with a 42mm objective lens diameter, providing a balanced view. On the other hand, 12×50 binoculars have a higher 12x magnification and a larger 50mm objective lens diameter, resulting in closer views and better performance in low-light conditions. However, 12×50 binoculars are slightly bulkier and may require more stability. So which is superior, 10×42 or 12×50 binoculars? Generally, the 10×42 binoculars are considered as a better choice.
Things to consider while choosing a binocular from 10x42, 10x50 & 12x50:
- Magnification Power: Evaluate how much magnification you require for your intended use. 10x magnification provides a good balance between image detail and stability, while 12x magnification offers a closer view but may require more stability to minimize hand shake.
- Objective Lens Diameter: Consider the objective lens diameter as it affects the amount of light the binoculars gather. 10×50 binoculars have a larger objective lens diameter, resulting in better light gathering and improved performance in low-light conditions.
- Field of View: Determine the width of the area you want to observe. Generally, lower magnification binoculars offer a wider field of view, which is advantageous for activities like birdwatching or sports events where tracking fast-moving subjects is important.
- Image Brightness and Low-Light Performance: If you plan to use the binoculars in low-light conditions or during dusk and dawn, the larger objective lens diameter of 10×50 binoculars will provide brighter and clearer images compared to 10×42 binoculars.
- Stability and Handling: Consider the stability of the binoculars, especially with higher magnifications like 12x. Higher magnification binoculars tend to be more sensitive to hand shake, so you may need additional stabilization like using a tripod or image stabilization features.
- Portability: Assess how important portability is for your specific activities. 10×42 binoculars are generally more compact and lightweight, making them easier to carry during hiking or travel, while 10×50 and 12×50 binoculars may be slightly bulkier.
- Budget: Determine your budget range and explore the options within that range. Prices may vary depending on brand, quality, and additional features, but typically 10×42 binoculars are more affordable compared to 10×50 and 12×50 binoculars.
Our Take on the Discussion
So, we have dug deep into the comparison so far and now it’s the time for my honest opinion after using these three types of binoculars myself. As a binocular expert, here’s what I think on choosing among 10×42, 10×50, and 12×50 binoculars:
- 10×42 binoculars are a versatile and portable option, striking a good balance between magnification and light-gathering ability. They are great for outdoor activities like wildlife observation and hiking.
- If you prioritize brighter images and better performance in low-light conditions, go for 10×50 binoculars. Their larger objective lens diameter improves light gathering, ideal for stargazing or dimly lit environments.
- For those seeking higher magnification and detailed observations, 12×50 binoculars offer a closer view with intricate details. They are well-suited for activities like birdwatching or hunting but require additional stability to minimize hand shake.
Consider factors like portability, low-light performance, and intended activities to make the best choice. Trying out different models or reading reviews can help in determining the right binoculars for your specific needs.
Mostly asked questions about 10x42, 10x50, and 12x50 Binoculars
Which binoculars are better for low-light conditions, 10x42, 10x50 or 12x50?
Generally, the larger the objective lens size, the brighter the image will be in low-light conditions. Therefore, 10×50 and 12×50 binoculars are better for low-light conditions than 10×42 binoculars. However, other factors such as lens coating and prism type may also affect the image brightness.
Which binoculars are more portable and comfortable to use among 10x42, 10x50, and 12x50?
Generally, the smaller and lighter the binoculars, the more portable and comfortable they are to use. Therefore, 10×42 binoculars are more portable and comfortable to use than 10×50 and 12×50 binoculars. However, other factors such as ergonomics and eye relief may also affect the user’s comfort.
How do I choose the right numbers for my binoculars?
The right numbers for your binoculars depend on your intended use and personal preference. You need to consider factors such as your viewing distance, lighting conditions, field of view, image stability, portability and comfort. Generally, a magnification power of 7x to 10x and an objective lens diameter of 30mm to 50mm are suitable for most purposes. However, you may need higher or lower numbers depending on your specific needs.
What are some other features to look for in binoculars besides the numbers?
Some other features to look for in binoculars are lens coating, prism type, eye relief, focus system, waterproofing, fog-proofing and durability. These features can affect the image quality, clarity, contrast, brightness, ease of use and weather-resistance of your binoculars. You should check the specifications and reviews of different models before buying them.
What are the benefits of 10x50 binoculars over 10x42?
10×50 binoculars have a larger objective lens diameter, resulting in better low-light performance and a brighter image. They are suitable for activities like stargazing, nature observation, and marine use.