When it comes to owning a pair of binoculars, the 8×42 size is the most versatile size out there. Thanks to the 8x magnification and 42mm objective lens, these binoculars are ideal for use in almost all applications.
They provide bright, clear and tack-sharp sight pictures in nearly all lighting conditions and a wide field of view that makes it easy for you to find your subjects. Most binoculars with this popular configuration are also lighter in weight than other full-sized binoculars, simple to use even for beginners and reasonably affordable as well.
However, purchasing a quality pair of the best 8×42 binoculars is easier said than done. The market is saturated with options from a multitude of brands and this makes it a taxing task to find a product that works best for your needs, especially if you are a first-time buyer.
To help make your selection process less taxing and more pleasant, here is our review of the best 8×42 binoculars available on the market today. Let’s take a look.
10 Best 8×42 Binoculars – Our Top Picks
1) Celestron -TrailSeeker 8×42 Binoculars
The TrailSeeker 8×42 Binoculars is a high-quality pair of binoculars that offers crystal clear image views with bright colors, even in the not so ideal lighting conditions. This makes it the perfect binocular for bird watching, hunting and other outdoor activities.
The binocular offers a wide field of view to help you follow your subjects easily and ensure that nothing is left undiscovered. It also employs phase-coated BaK-4 prisms that maximize resolution and color accuracy, and fully multi-coated optics to enhance image detail in low light settings.
This premium quality yet cost-effective binocular is built to last. It has a durable magnesium alloy frame that is fully waterproof and fog proof for use under any weather condition. It also features multi-stop metal eyecups which provide a longer lifespan compared to plastic eyecups.
Above all, this pair of binoculars has a lightweight, ergonomic design to provide a sturdy and secure grip and ensure comfortable handling in the field.
Features
- Premium prism coatings
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Fully broadband multi-coated lenses
- Twist-up eyecups
- Durable magnesium alloy body
Pros
- Wide field of view
- Lightweight, ergonomic design
- Great durability
- Incredible clarity
- Amazing value
Cons
- Basic neck strap
2) Zeiss Conquest HD Binoculars with LotuTec Protective Coating
If you are an avid birder looking to take your birding views to the next big level, the Zeiss Conquest HD Binoculars is your ideal option. It boasts a superior design with perfect ergonomics to ensure comfortable handling and an array of other high-end features to make your birding expedition more enjoyable.
This all-round binocular is made with HD lens system that yields maximum color rendition. Even at extended ranges, it provides clear and detailed views of targets in virtually all lighting and weather conditions. It also has a hydrophobic LotuTec coating that provides a clear view in all weather conditions by repelling dirt, dust and moisture.
Nature lovers will also love how compact and lightweight this pair of binoculars is. Besides, it is built with a large focusing wheels which ensures simple focusing, even with your gloves on. This set of binoculars also comes with rotating and lockable eyecups that make glassing comfortable for eyeglass and non- eyeglass wearers.
Features
- Compact and robust construction
- SCHOTT ED glass
- Hydrophobic LotuTec coating
- Rotating and lockable eyecup
- Large focusing wheel
- Zeiss T premium lens coating
Pros
- Lightweight, ergonomic design
- Legendary German quality
- Comfortable eye relief
- Outstanding glass quality
Cons
- Expensive for the budget buyer
3) Nikon PROSTAFF 3S 8×42
Nikon is an optics brand that is known for its superior-quality products and the PROSTAFF 3S 8×42 lives up to that reputation. If you are looking for a compact set of binoculars that is ideal for any adventure, this model suits you.
Crafted from lead-and arsenic-free Eco-glass, the binocular provides exceptional resolution and color accuracy. It also features multi-layer coating on all the lenses to reduce glare and light loss through reflection. This amplifies light transmission to ensure that the images you get are bright and crisp clear, even in poor lighting conditions.
Like many other Nikon optics, the binocular has a high-eyepoint design which provides a long and comfortable eye relief. This provides a clear visual field for everyone, with or without eyewear. You also get to tailor the eye relief for a custom fit with the turn-and-slide rubber eyecups included.
Furthermore, the PROSTAFF 3S is built to offer long-term durability. It has a rugged rubber armored body which provides a non-slip grip and protects the optics from shock and impacts. It is also 100% waterproof and fog proof to be operable in any weather condition.
Features
- Turn and slide rubber eyecups
- Rubber armored body
- Multilayer-coated lenses
- Waterproof and fog proof
- High-reflectivity silver-alloy mirror coatings
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Wide and clear field of view
- Long eye relief
- Compact, lightweight design
- Easy to focus
Cons
- Not option to mount it on a tripod
4) Vortex Optics Razor UHD Binoculars 8×42
The Razor UHD 8×42 Binocular is the ideal option for anyone looking to get high-definition views of their subjects they are watching. The binocular is built with high-end optical features that offer unparalleled image resolution in any environment and stunning performance in low light conditions.
To allow for use on either a tripod or car window mount, this binocular is compatible with a tripod adapter. Furthermore, it is equipped with a right eye diopter that tailors each barrel’s focus to your eyes. It also comes with twist-up eyecups which provide a customized eye relief.
The binocular is built to provide reliable performance in all weather conditions. It is O-ring sealed to prevent dirt, dust and moisture from entering the optics. It is also argon purged to provide a lifetime of fog proof performance.
Construction-wise, it has a magnesium chassis that is durable and lightweight. Additionally, it is equipped with a True open hinge design that provides superior ergonomics while alleviating the total weight and bulk. It also boasts scratch resistant lenses for added protection while you are in the field and an anti-slip rubber armor that provides additional external protection as well as a secure, anti-slip grip.
Features
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Anti-reflective lens coatings
- Right-eye diopter
- Magnesium chassis
- Rubber armor
- Twist-up eyecups
- Ultra-hard scratch resistant Armortek lens coatings
Pros
- Tripod adaptable
- Bright and clear optics
- Robust and reliable construction
- Very easy to focus
Cons
- Expensive for the budget buyer
5) Athlon Optics Midas Binoculars for Adults and Kids
If you are looking for the best 8×42 binoculars for family use, look no further than Athlon Optics Midas Binoculars. It has a light and slim design that makes it easy to use and comfortable to hold and carry for both adults and kids.
These binoculars are waterproof and fog proof to ensure unimpeded field use. They also have a magnesium chassis which provides the strength of a metal chassis but with decreased weight. Better yet, the rubber armor included provides a durable, anti-slip texture in any weather condition and shields the optics from damage and weather elements.
This pair of binoculars is also equipped with UHD glass lenses, advanced multi-coated optics and high-quality BaK4 prisms which work in tandem to produce bright, clear and tack-sharp sight pictures, even when you are glassing in poor light conditions.
Features
- Non-slip rubber armor
- Robust magnesium chassis
- Extra-low dispersion glass objective
- Compact BaK4 roof prism
- Fully multi-coated optics
Pros
- Smooth dials
- Excellent optics with ultra-bright fields
- Lightweight design
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Discontinued by the manufacturer
6) Hawke Frontier ED X Binoculars 8×42 Green
When you are looking for a reliable, rugged and waterproof set of binoculars that offers outstanding vision in nearly all lighting conditions, the Hawke Frontier ED X Binoculars won’t let you down. It makes an excellent companion for bird watching, wildlife watching and other outdoor applications.
Designed with extra-low (ED) glass, the binocular provides excellent image brightness, crispness and color accuracy. Furthermore, the lenses are multi-coated to maximize light transmission and ensure that the sight picture is sharp and detailed, even in low light settings.
For all-weather reliability, this set of binoculars comes with an IPX-7 waterproof rating. On top of that, it is fog proof to keep both the interior and exterior lenses fog-free when you move between two environments that have a large temperature gradient.
This set of binoculars also boasts a water repellent coating on the objective lens to keep the lenses clean and clear all the time. It is also built to be operable in temperatures ranging from -15°C to 55°C.
Features
- Nitrogen purged
- IPX-7 waterproof rating
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Fully multi-coated optics
- High resolution phase corrected BAK-4 roof prisms
- Rubber coated magnesium chassis
- Hydrophobic coating of the exterior lenses
Pros
- Outstanding image clarity
- Solid construction
- Lightweight design
- Wide eye relief
- Good eye relief
7) Swarovski 8×42 NL Pure Binoculars
Our next 8×42 binocular magnification is the Swarovski 8×42 NL Pure Binoculars. This model offers an ultra-large field of view to make target finding a walk in the park and ensure easy tracking of fast-moving subjects. It is also built with premium quality optics to provide bright and crisp clear views of targets in nearly all lighting and weather conditions.
To complement the high-end optics, the binocular also features a compact deign with superb ergonomics. This makes it easy to carry in the field and comfortable to hold during lengthy observation sessions. Apart from that, it boasts a easy-to-operate focus mechanism to help you bring a target into focus even when you are on the move.
This high-end pair of binoculars is also built with high-end materials to stand up to whatever you throw at it and give you many years of use.
Features
- Ultra-large field of view of 477 feet @ 1,000 yards
- Field flattener lenses
- Smooth focusing mechanism
- High-end optics
Pros
- Lightweight
- Compact and ideal for travel
- Superior ergonomics
- Crisp clear optics
Cons
- Big budget
8) Maven B1.2 42mm ED Binocular
Next up, we have the Maven B1.2 42mm ED Binocular. Having this set of binoculars as your outdoor companion will help you discover what you have never seen and make your expeditions more enjoyable.
This pair of binoculars is made to handle the most situations and provide consistent reliability. It features high-end optics that offer superior low light performance and tack-sharp edge-to-edge clarity. It also has a wide field of view for effortless target finding and a smooth focus mechanism that brings the target into focus quickly.
Moreover, the binocular has a compact, lightweight design to ensure ease of use. Though compact, it is rigid enough to withstand any abuse and maximize durability and longevity. The robust housing also makes it the go-to optic for hunting, birding and general purpose wildlife observation.
For all-weather reliability, the is filled with nitrogen to keep the lenses fog proof. It also has a waterproof and dustproof construction to ensure that it performs reliably even when the weather conditions are less ideal.
Features
- Smooth focus mechanism
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Tripod adaptable
- Extra-low dispersion ED glass
- Wide angle prism
Pros
- Stunning visibility in low light settings
- Easy to use
- Compact and lightweight design
- Generous Depth of field
Cons
- Expensive
9) Steiner Predator Series Hunting Binoculars
If you are in the market for the best 8×42 binoculars for hunting, this is your ideal option. With the 8x magnification, it offers a massive field of view that is bright and clear. This makes it ideal for finding and following game in forested areas, especially in low light situations
This pair of binoculars employs high definition optics that enhance enhance low light performance and provide true-to-natural image views. It also comes with a built-in angle rangefinder that helps you measure the distance and size of the game.
Moreover, the binocular offers a compact, lightweight design to ensure ease of use. Though compact, it offers the ruggedness and durability you need to hunt game in any environment. It also boasts a laser texture which provides a secure grip, even in wet environments.
This hunting binocular also brings to the nitrogen-filled and sealed tubes which provide a lifetime of fog proof and waterproof performance.
Features
- Fast-Close-Focus technology
- Built-in range finder
- Durable aluminum housing
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled.
- Predator Diamond coating
- HD optics
- Fully rubberized outer cover
Pros
- Stunning visibility in low light settings
- Easy to use
- HD clarity
- Compact and lightweight design
- Wide interpupillary distance
Cons
- The lens covers included are slightly heavy
10) Zeiss 8×42 Terra ED Binocular
Our last 8×42 Binocular recommendation is the Zeiss 8×42 Terra ED Binocular. This compact pair of binoculars has a sleek design that is also lightweight and comfortable to carry and use.
Given its compact size, this binocular is highly versatile. It makes a handy companion for bird watching, nature observation, hiking, travel and other activities. It also boasts a large, smooth and easy-to-grip focus wheel that makes focusing effortless and quick.
Regarding construction, the binocular is made with premium-quality materials so it will last long. It is also equipped with a waterproof coating that makes it a dependable companion even in the not so ideal weather conditions, and a LotuTec coating on the lenses to shed off dirt, moisture droplets and dust.
Features
- Large, smooth and easy-to-grip focus wheel
- Waterproof construction
- Hydrophobic, LotuTec lens coating
- ED glass
- Schmidt-Pechan prism system
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Versatile
- Wide field of view
- Stunning low light visibility
- German quality
Read Also
- Best Image Stabilized Binoculars
- Best 10×42 Binoculars
- Best Hunting Binoculars under $500
- Best Lightweight Binoculars for Bird Watching
Tips for Buying the Best 8×42 Binoculars
Whether you are buying your first pair of 8×42 binoculars or you are in the market looking for an upgrade, it is important that you pick the right pair the first time. This way, you won’t have to go back to the market looking for another product.
Below are some of the important things you should consider when making the selection.
Packability
8×42 binoculars are known for their versatility. When making your selection, choose a packable pair. This way, you will have an easy time carrying everywhere you want.
With packability, the binocular has to be compact and lightweight. A compact pair of binoculars will save on space when packing other gear. If its lightweight, it will not add weight to the gear you are packing. It will also be easy to carry during lengthy glassing sessions.
Weatherproof
You should also consider the conditions which you will be using the binoculars in. If you will be travelling to places where the humidity or temperature gradient is keeps changing, the binoculars you pick must be fog proof.
Also ensure that you get a pair that is water resistant or water proof. If you are using the binoculars in the rain and moisture gets inside it, it will make the lenses to fog up internally and potentially damage the sensitive optics inside the casing.
Field of View
Field of view refers to the area you see when you look through the binoculars. It is measured in degrees or as a liner field of view in feet per 1,00 0 yards.
The wider the field of view the binocular has the better. It will help you find targets with ease at any distance and ensure that nothing is left undiscovered. When hunting, a large field of view will help you monitor the fast-moving game effortlessly.
Durability
Another important factor you should consider is durability. Generally, the quality of construction and the type of materials used determine how durable the binoculars will be.
You will want your binoculars to be tough enough to survive everyday use and last long. Binoculars made of aluminum or magnesium alloy offer unmatched durability, while remaining lightweight.
Also, ensure that the binoculars you get have a rubber armoring. It will add on durability by providing additional protection from shock and impacts. The armoring will also give you a non-slip grip, even when you are wearing gloves or using the binoculars in wet environments.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the distance between the lens and the surface of your eye where you can have a full view of the target without moving the binoculars around. With ample eye relief, you will have a comfortable time using the binoculars, with or without eyeglasses. The best 8×42 binoculars have an eye relief of 16mm or more for comfortable observation.
Cost
Lastly, consider the cost of the binoculars. The cost of the best 8×42 binoculars varies from one product to the other. Consider the features that you need the binoculars to have, then pick a model that fits your budget needs.
Benefits of 8×42 Binoculars
- Beginner-friendly- The moderate 8x magnification makes the binoculars easy use and to hold steady, even for beginners.
- Wide field of view- 8×42 binoculars offer a bright and wide field of view that is vital for easy target finding.
- Superior low light performance- The substantial exit pupil in 8×42 binoculars makes them ideal for use in poorly lit conditions.
- Versatility- Binoculars with the 8×42 configuration are ideal for use in nearly all kind of observations.
- Cost-effective- Compared with the high-powered full-size binoculars, 8×42 models are cheaper. This is because increase in magnification increases the overall pricing of the binoculars.
FAQs
- What do the numbers on the binoculars mean?
The two-number configuration in binoculars is a representation of the magnification power and the size of the objective lens. The number before the “x” is the magnification power while the number after the “x” is the objective lens diameter.
So, in the 8×42 configuration, the binoculars have a magnification power of 8x and a 42mm objective lens size.
- Are 8×42 binoculars worth it?
Absolutely. 8×42 binoculars are the most popular binoculars and its for a reason. They are very simple to use, even for beginners. These binoculars also offer a bright and clear images even in low light settings and wide field of view for comfortable glassing.
Conclusion
Finding the right set of binoculars is important if you are looking to get closer to nature and enjoy the great outdoors. As you have seen, there are plenty of 8×42 binoculars for you to choose from.
When you are looking to purchase a new pair of binoculars, be activity specific then focus on finding a quality product that matches your individual preference and needs. Whatever you budget and needs are, there is a binocular out there for you.