Best birding binoculars (1 Viewer)

[CathyMichiganBirds]

Bird lover here and I'm new to using binoculars. I'm looking to purchase a pair of binoculars and have it narrowed down to either Vortex Diamondback HD 8X42 or 10x42, Vanguard Endeavor with ED glass 8x42 or 10x42. Also considering Celestron Nature DX ED or Celestron Trailseeker ED. Anyone with advice on these models or something similiar for birding?

 

[Dennis Mau]

I would stretch your price point a little and go for the Vortex Viper HD 8x42. For less than $500 it is hard to beat. It has an excellent unconditional warranty.

Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Review

If you're looking for the best binoculars for less than a grand, the Vortex Viper HD 8x42 should be at the top of your shortlist. These binoculars strike a...

www.outdoorgearlab.com

 

[CathyMichiganBirds]

I would stretch your price point a little and go for the Vortex Viper HD 8x42. For less than $500 it is hard to beat. It has an excellent unconditional warranty.

Vortex Viper HD 8x42 Review

If you're looking for the best binoculars for less than a grand, the Vortex Viper HD 8x42 should be at the top of your shortlist. These binoculars strike a...

www.outdoorgearlab.com

Any thoughts on 10x42 verses 8x42?

 

[Dennis Mau]

Any thoughts on 10x42 verses 8x42?

That is personal preference and depends on how and where you bird. If you bird in open areas at long distances you might like the 10x, but for closer in birding say in the woods the 8x would be better. The 8x has a wider FOV, better DOF, is brighter, and you can hold them steadier, whereas, with the 10x you will see more detail at a distance. If you are just going to have one binocular, I think the 8x42 would serve you well and would be a better all around binocular than the 10x42. If you have two binoculars, it is nice to have an 8x42 and a 10x42 for different birding conditions.

 

[Foss]

^^^ +1

 

[Bill Atwood]

If at all possible try before you buy. The Viper may be better optically but I would choose the Diamondbacks based on ergonomics. I agree with all 8x recommendations.

Currently B&H Photo has a special price of $200 for the 8x42 Diamondbacks. Vortex also has the best optics warranty.