When you are outdoors getting closer to nature, you deserve a closer look at the great outdoors. The best binoculars under $100 make a handy companion for such applications as they help us see more than the naked eye can see.
Whether it is birdwatching, hiking, camping, sightseeing, hunting, or any other outdoor excursion, getting a quality pair of binoculars is important. They come in a variety of types and sizes for use across different environments. Furthermore, the price of binoculars varies from model to model to meet the budget needs of every outdoor enthusiast out there.
In this product roundup, our focus will be on the best binoculars under $100. While the cost of these binoculars is tempting and reasonably fair, they don’t compromise on features, quality, or performance. We have also included a comprehensive buying guide to help ensure that you make the right purchase. But first, let’s look at the attributes that make a great binocular under $100.
Attributes of a Great Pair of Binoculars
No matter the price, a great pair of binoculars is made of a plethora of features that include:
Optical Clarity
This is the first thing that a great pair of binoculars is made of. It should have top-tier glass elements that enhance the detail, color, and sharpness of the sight pictures.
Lens Coating
On top of that, the binoculars need to have premium anti-reflective coatings applied on the optics to fight glare in broad daylight and enhance the transmission of light in low-light settings.
Ample Eye Relief
Binoculars tend to be hard on the eyes. A great pair should therefore give you ample eye relief for snug glassing whether you wear eyeglasses or not.
Non-Slip Grip
Furthermore, the best binoculars under $100 should have their chassis rubber armored. The armor provides a secure, anti-slip grip for functional handling in all weather conditions.
Lightweight Construction
It is also important for the binoculars to have a lightweight construction that minimizes fatigue during extended glassing periods. Lightweight binoculars also have the added benefit of being easy to balance and focus.
Weatherproof
Last but not least, a good pair of binoculars should be O-ring sealed to prevent moisture and dust from penetrating the optics. In addition, it needs to be filled with a dry inert gas to prevent fog buildup.
Best Binoculars under $100 – Top Picks
Being on a tight budget doesn’t limit you from getting a quality pair of binoculars for your recreational outings. Below are the best binoculars under $100 worth your consideration.
Let’s have a look.
1) Celestron – Outland X 8×42 Binoculars – Best Overall
The Outland X 8×42 Binoculars are by far the best binoculars under $100. They are an all-around pair of binoculars that provide crisp, detailed, and color-accurate views in all kinds of environments.
A defining facet of this set of binoculars is optical finesse. It boasts multi-coated optics that work together with the high-quality BaK-4 prisms to enhance image brightness and clarity. Furthermore, the large 42mm objective lens makes the binocular an ideal option for use in all light settings.
When it comes to construction, the binocular is durable enough to withstand rough handling in all-weather environments and rubber armored for extra protection from shock. Better yet, the armoring ensures that you get a secure, anti-slip grip, even when your hands are wet or sweaty.
What’s more, the binocular offers a lightweight, ergonomic form factor for optimal glassing comfort. It is also designed with twist-up eyecups to accommodate users with or without eyewear.
Features
- BaK-4 prisms
- Multi-coated optics
- Protective rubber covering
- Twist-up eyecups
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- Roof prism optical design
- 8x magnification
- Moisture-resistant neoprene carrying case
- 42mm objective lens
- Center focus
Pros
- Tripod adaptable
- Eyeglass-friendly eye relief
- Lightweight, ergonomic form factor
- Ease of use
- Crisp clear views
Cons
- Stiff right diopter ring
2) Vortex Optics Triumph HD 10×42 Binoculars – Best for Hunting
Vortex Optics is a highly respected brand in the field of optics. It is committed to manufacturing high-end optical equipment that are cost-effective and the Triumph HD 10×42 Binoculars are not any different.
This pair of full-size binoculars delivers excellent image quality, even at long ranges. This is thanks to the high 10x magnification power and the 42mm objective lens. Besides that, it comes with adjustable eyecups and an adjustable diopter for optimizing eye comfort.
Optically, the binocular brings to the table an HD optical system with optimized glass elements that deliver exemplary resolution. The lenses are fully multi-coated to maximize low-light performance and enhance optical clarity from sunrise to sunset.
When it comes to use and handling, this pair of binoculars has a compact and lightweight body that enables comfortable handling with one or both hands. It is also tripod-adaptable for hands-free glassing and rubber-armored to provide a snug and secure grip.
Features
- 10x magnification
- Adjustable rubber eyecups
- 42mm objective
- Adjustable right eye diopter
- HD optical system
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Polycarbonate chassis
- Shock-absorbing rugger armor
- Waterproof and nitrogen-purged
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Ease of focus
- Crisp clear optics
- Durable and well-built
Cons
- Plastic parts
3) Nikon ACULON 8×42 Binoculars A211 – Best for Birding
If you are on the hunt for the best binoculars under $100 for birding, look no further than the ACULON 8×42 Binoculars. This pair of binoculars offers the best balance between quality and affordability to avid birders.
It features 8x magnification and a 42mm objective. This size makes it ideal for watching birds in their vast habitats. Besides, the objective lens is fabricated with Nikon’s exclusive lead and arsenic-free eco-glass to enhances light transfer inside the optics.
Moreover, the stunning optical clarity of this binocular is made possible by the multi-coated lenses that work together with the BaK-4 Porro prisms. It is also built with aspherical multi-coated eco-glass elements to deliver bright and crisp images that are rich in both color and detail.
What’s more, all ACULON 8×42 Binoculars A211 features turn-and-slide rubber eyecups that facilitate easy positioning of the eyes. They also come with a fast and smooth range of focus for quick viewing.
Features
- Porro prism optical configuration
- 8x magnification
- 4ft close focus distance
- Central focusing system
- Turn-and-slide rubber eyecups
- Multi-coated eco-glass lenses
- 42mm objective lens
- BaK-4 prisms
Pros
- Ergonomic, lightweight design
- Quality and reliable construction
- Smooth focusing system
- Crisp clear images
Cons
- Narrow eye relief
4) Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars – Best Compact
When it comes to portability and versatility, you can hardly go wrong with Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars. It as a compact, pocket-size design that makes it an ideal companion for outdoor enthusiasts who are always on the go.
Though compact, this pair of binoculars produces bright views even at extended distances. It has a high 12x magnification and a relatively large field of view of 273ft at 1000 yards to let you look farther and broaden your horizon.
Furthermore, the optics are coated with FMC broadband coatings to enhance light transmission. Together with the premium BaK-4 prism, the binocular provides bright and crisp clear image views no matter the lighting condition.
Well, that’s not all. This set of binoculars has adjustable eye cups that fit all users with or without eyeglasses. The generous eye relief combined with the large eyepiece also maximizes glassing comfort by alleviating strain and fatigue in the extended glassing sessions.
Features
- Adjustable eye cups
- 12x high-powered eyepiece
- FMC broadband lens coating
- Non-slip rubber armor
- ABS plastic housing
- Adjustable eye cups
- Premium BaK4 prisms
Pros
- Suitable for both adults and kids
- Compact, lightweight, and portable
- Ease of use
- Superb contrast and color fidelity
- Smooth focusing
Cons
- Poor low-light vision
5) Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Binoculars – Best for Boating
Next up, we have the Bushnell H2O 10x42mm Binoculars. This set of binoculars has a waterproof construction that makes it an ideal choice for boating and other marine applications.
To complement the waterproof construction, the binocular comes with fully multi-coated optics that enhance resolution and contrast. Furthermore, the folding roof prism design makes it a compact binocular that is easy to use and convenient to pack and carry from one location to the other.
Another stand-out facet of this set of binoculars is the confident grip. It has a non-slip aggressive texturing that gives users a secure, anti-slip grip even when one is wearing gloves. Besides that, the binocular features a robust aluminum body construction that is lightweight but durable.
Features
- 10x magnification
- Folding roof prism design
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Aluminum body construction
- BaK-4 prisms
- Non-slip aggressive texture
- IPX7 waterproof and fog-proof
Pros
- Compact folding design
- Lightweight
- Durable and well-built
- Good optical quality
- Versatile
6) Athlon Optics 8×42 Neos G2 HD Binoculars – Best for Family Use
Athlon Optics 8×42 Neos G2 HD Binoculars are by far the best binoculars under $100 for family use. They have a compact, lightweight, and ergonomic design that ensures comfortable handling for both adults and kids.
The optical finesse of this pair of binoculars is unparalleled. It employs UHD glass elements that work in tandem with fully multi-coated optics and top-grade BaK-4 prisms to collect more light and produce brilliant sight pictures.
As exemplary as the optical performance is so is the construction quality. The binocular has a magnesium chassis base that is not just durable, but lighter in weight than models made with aluminum.
Furthermore, this pair of binoculars has easily twistable eyecups to help you tailor the eye relief to your ideal glassing comfort. It is also purged with high-grade Argon gas and sealed with O-rings to provide a lifetime of reliable waterproof and fog-proof capabilities.
Features
- 8x magnification
- Argon purged interior
- Magnesium chassis base
- Fully-multi-coated optics
- Tripod adapter socket
- Central focus knob
- Adjustable diopter
- Twist-up eyecups
- XPL scratch-proof and dust-proof lens coatings
Pros
- Versatile
- Ergonomic design
- Top-tier eye comfort
- Durable construction
- Great image quality
Cons
- Relatively heavy
7) SkyGenius 10×42 Binoculars – Best for Adults
Here is another full-size pair of binoculars that comes with all the modern features you would expect. It is built with ease of use in mind and is perfect for bird watching.
With the high 10x magnification power, you can observe any details of the birds far away without disturbing them. Besides, the large 42mm objective complements the high magnification by enhancing image clarity and low-light performance.
Another outstanding facet of the binocular is its lightweight construction. It weighs a mere 1.10lb so you can carry it without fatigue when you are outdoors. What’s more, it has a chassis that is rubber armored to ensure that it does not slip from the hand.
In addition to all these features, SkyGenius 10×42 Binoculars bring to the table a large 22mm eyepiece that not only relieves glassing fatigue, but also makes the objects appear bright and clear in dim light settings.
Features
- Anti-slip rubber texturing
- Large 22mm eyepieces
- Full multi-coated objective lens
- Roof prism optical path
- Adjustable eyecups
- Center adjustment wheel
- 10x magnification
- 4mm exit pupil
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- High resolution
- Excellent craftsmanship
Cons
- Short eye relief
8) Carson VP Series Compact 10x25mm Binoculars – Best Portable
Last, but not least, we have Carson VP Series Compact 10x25mm Binoculars. It is designed and built for use on the go so it is an ideal addition for outdoor enthusiasts who are always on the go.
The selling point of this set of binoculars is eye comfort. It has an extra-long eye relief to help you experience the ultimate eye comfort and convenience, with or without eyewear. Over and above that, you can mount it on a tripod and enjoy steady, hands-free view of the world around you.
Carson optics are built with durability in mind and this set of binoculars is not any different. It has a durable chassis with anti-fog, and waterproof protection to withstand even the toughest and unforgiving outdoor conditions.
Another benefit of this compact pair of binoculars is its exceptional image brightness, clarity, and detail, all thanks to the top-grade lenses and anti-reflective lens coatings. As a result, you will be able to see distant objects with stunning clarity, even in low light.
To add on everything else, the Carson VP Series Compact 10x25mm Binoculars come with a wide range of accessories from a carrying case to a lens cover to a cleaning cloth. This ensures that you get the best value for your money.
Features
- 10x magnification
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 25mm objective lens
- Phase-coated prism
- 8 feet minimum focus distance
- Premium BaK-4 prisms
- Twist-down eyecup
- Waterproof and nitrogen-purged interior
- Rugged body
- Center focus
Pros
- Exceptional image detail
- Ease of use
- Ultra-lightweight
- Generous eye relief
- Smooth focusing mechanism
Cons
- Cheap strap and case
Read Also
- 7 Best Hunting Binoculars Under $500
- 10 Best 8×42 Binoculars
- 7 Best Binoculars for Bird Watching Beginners
- 7 Best Binoculars for Nature Observation
What Magnification Do You Need?
To choose the right binocular magnification, you should consider how far you will be observing the objects and the intended application. For close and medium-range glassing applications, a binocular with moderate magnification will suffice. This is from 7x to 8x to 10x.
On the other hand, high-powered binoculars with 12x and above magnification are well suited for long-range glassing applications like astronomy and stargazing. Due to the high magnification factor, such binoculars often require the use of a tripod to stabilize the views and take the heavy weight off your hands.
How to Choose the Best Binoculars under $100
Whether you are looking for binoculars under $100 for hunting, birding, camping, hiking, or any other applications, consider the following factors when making your selection.
Picture Quality
First and foremost, look at the picture quality the binocular provides. Low-cost binoculars often use cheap glass elements but not all. So, look at the type of glass the binoculars employ and opt for a model that comes with good-quality glass elements.
Size and Weight
It is also important to pay attention to the size and weight of the binoculars. A model that is compact in size is perfect for users who are always on the go. It is easy to pack without taking too much of your space.
Furthermore, lightweight binoculars are the best in terms of functional handling and ease of use. In the extended glassing periods, such binoculars are comfortable to carry without fatigue.
Durability
Durability in binoculars depends on the nature of construction and the type of materials used to make the chassis base. The best binoculars under $100 have a sturdy chassis base made with hard-wearing materials. What’s more, the binoculars should have shock-absorbing rubber armor covering the chassis.
Eye Relief
In binoculars, eye relief distance varies from one model to the other. The longer the eye relief, the greater the glassing comfort, with or without eyeglasses. We recommend binoculars with adjustable eye cups and an eye relief of more than 15mm for all kinds of indoor and outdoor applications.
Weatherproof
The best binoculars under $100 needs to have reliable protection from weather elements for all-weather operability. Opt for a pair whose interior is sealed and filled with a dry inert gas. Such binoculars provide a lifetime of moisture protection and thermal stability.
FAQs
- Are inexpensive binoculars any good?
Yes. Most of the inexpensive binoculars come with quality features and produce decent optical performance in virtually all lighting and weather conditions.
- What do numbers in binoculars represent?
The magnification power and size of the objective lens respectively. So, in an 8x42mm pair of binoculars for example, 8x is the magnification power while 42mm is the diameter of the aperture.
- How much do decent binoculars cost?
It depends on the brand, quality, and features the binocular incorporates. You can expect to pay at least $200 for Porro prism binoculars and $400 and above for a decent pair of roof prism binoculars.
Final Words
We do hope that this article has been insightful and of great help to you. All the binoculars we have mentioned in this guide are cheap but durable, versatile, and of decent quality. So, look at the features that each model brings to the table and pick one that blends the best with your needs.