The first number, which is followed by an X, represents the magnification of the lens (e.g. Unlike binoculars that have different sized objective lenses (eg 10x42 vs 10x50), the disparity in the size and weight between an 8x42mm and 10x42mm binocular is extremely minimal and really not worth worrying about. Most of the time, lower magnification binoculars will have a larger field of view. But compared to a similar set of 8X42 binoculars, you’re probably going to save some money going with the lower magnification. But when it starts to get darker, the larger exit pupil of the 8X42 binoculars will allow for clearer viewing with less light. My old pair of binos, where Eddie Bauers 10x50. However, it can also make it harder to find your subject in the first place since you are seeing less total area when viewing through the lens. Thus a 10x42 binocular will best suit those who mostly operate during the day in wide-open spaces, so for example in fields, out on the hills, along a lakefront or at the coast. (Just the tip of the cardinal's wing is visible, at at 2 o'clock.) Ive narrowed my search down to the Nikon Monarch 5's (I have a spending cap of $300.00).

Want to see all the detail in a bird’s feathers? Likewise, for birding and wildlife observation at close to mid-distances, a lower 8x power with a wider view makes it much easier to quickly locate and then follow your subject. However, they also make for larger binoculars that are bulkier and less compact. It lets you wrap your fingers around each barrel. 8x42 Binoculars For Sale in the USA, 10x42 Binoculars For Sale in the UK This can be a major advantage for hunters, birders, and anyone else who needs the extra detail that higher magnification can provide. However, even though both 8x and 10x 42mm binoculars are able to capture the same amount of light, they will have different capabilities in terms of the image brightness: Exit Pupil SizeThis difference between the two can largely be explained by the relationship between the size of the pupils in your eyes and the size of the shafts of light exiting the ocular lenses (exit pupil) of the binocular: In good to average light conditions, most people’s pupils will constrict to a size smaller or at least equal to 4mm and thus both an 8x42 and a 10x42 binocular will be supplying your eyes with more than enough light for you to work with and thus perceive a bright image. Since 10X42 binoculars are more powerful, they’re always the better choice, right? Robert’s obsession with all things optical started early in life, when his optician father would bring home prototypes for Robert to play with.

Size-wise they will be the same as they will almost certainly use the same body, however, a 10x42 is often a fraction heavier than an 8x42 as they need slightly thicker glass to create the higher power. Contact Me | About Best Binoculars | Privacy | Sitemap |    Copyright © 2020 Best Binocular Reviews | Do You Want to Review Binoculars & Write for BBR? By the way, if you are in doubt, be sure to first check out What the Numbers Mean on a Binocular. The Talon 8x42 binocular, from Vortex Optics, offers an open bridge design. Its eye relief of 18mm means it works great for people who wear glasses (as well as for those who don't). Naturally, a higher level of magnification makes it possible to see greater detail in distant objects. Whilst this difference in transmittance between equal quality 10x42 vs 8x42 binoculars is minimal it only really becomes a factor under more extreme low light situations.