Buying a pair of binoculars can be a hefty purchase, and with so many brands and models to choose from, how do you know what your best options are? Worry not, we’re here to help! Our researchers have already checked out all the top brands, and in this article, we’ll be showing you our top-rated picks for the best binoculars in the ‘under $200’ price range.
What are the Best Binoculars For Under 200?
We could say that we traveled the world to find for you the Best Binoculars For Under 200 and it’s partially true – we’ve been on the road since 2011 after all.
More importantly, we have done a very thorough research online and have gone through most of the available best binoculars for less than 200 that you can buy today. We read the comments left by people who bought and used these best binoculars for under 200.
We also wrote a brief best binoculars for under 200 Buying Guide and FAQ sections to address most questions you may have.
Without further ado, here’s the list of top 9 best binoculars for less than 200 based on their pricing, specs and ratings by real users.
1. 10×42 Vortex Optics Crossfire HD Binoculars
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Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.5 Pounds (0.7 kg) Size: 6 x 5.2 x Inches (15.2 x 13.2 x cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm Magnification: 10x Eye Relief: 15mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
The 10×42 Vortex Optics Crossfire HD Binoculars are a great option for outdoor activities because this binocular is both waterproof and fog proof. It will be able to withstand the elements of different environments. It also features a wide field of view that can help to catch rapid movements. Having a robust and sturdy exterior, it is also well protected. One thing many like about this product is its ability to provide sufficiently clear images even in low lighting environments. One thing to take note of, however, is the weight of the binocular, together with the acceptable quality of its binocular casing.
Pros
- Waterproof and fog proof,
- Wide field of view,
- Robust and sturdy exterior,
- Provides clear images in low lighting
Cons
- Slightly heavy,
- Binocular case is not of high quality
2. Gosky EagleView 10×42 ED Binoculars with Smartphone Mount
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Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.5 Pounds (0.7 kg) Size: 5.8 x 5 x 2.1 Inches (14.6 x 12.6 x 5.3 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm Magnification: 10x Waterproof: Waterproof |
You can use the Gosky EagleView 10×42 for many activities like sporting events, birding, and more. This is because the lenses have a wide field of view. You do not need to be afraid of the harsh elements in different environments because the lens is fog proof and waterproof. Thus, your binocular will also suit many other outdoor activities. Also, if you like to take pictures, you’ll be glad to know that they provide a complimentary phone adapter! One thing to note is that the binocular is on the heavier side when compared to others with the same magnification. Also, you may find slight chromatic aberration when using this binocular.
Pros
- Waterproof and fog proof,
- Wide field of view,
- Fully multi-coated lenses,
- Phone adapter is provided
Cons
- Slightly heavy,
- Some chromatic aberration can be observed
3. Nikon Prostaff 3s Binocular
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Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.3 Pounds (0.6 kg) Size: 5.9 x 5.1 x 2 Inches (15 x 13 x 5.1 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm Magnification: 10x Eye Relief: 15.7mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
The Nikon Prostaff 3s Binocular is suited for a range of activities because it is so lightweight. Its wide field of view also makes it suitable for activities like sporting events and birding. One perk of this binocular is its rubber coating that protects the binocular and also gives you a comfortable grip even when using it for a long period. Do note that some may find that the image may be hard to focus and it may take some time manipulating the focus dial. Lastly, the binocular lenses are not fog proof and may require frequent cleaning in certain environments when temperatures are fluctuating.
Pros
- Lightweight,
- Suits many activities,
- Wide field of view,
- Comfortable rubber coating
Cons
- Hard to focus image,
- Lenses are not fog proof
4. Carson VP Series Waterproof HD Binoculars for Hunting
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Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.9 Pounds (0.9 kg) Size: 5 x 6.5 x 2.3 Inches (12.7 x 16.5 x 5.8 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm Magnification: 12x Eye Relief: 18.2 mm Waterproof: Yes Video: Yes |
The Carson VP Series Waterproof High Definition Binoculars for Hunting feature a 50 mm objective lens diameter and a 12 x magnification ability. They have BAK-4 phase corrected prisms and are fully multicoated to provide sharp and clear images. The optics are waterproof to allow for use in a variety of climates outdoors. The range of viewing is from 13.2 feet up to 214 ft. They have a large focusing knob that is easy to use. The 18.2 mm eye relief makes these good for use with eyeglasses. They have a protective case and neck strap included. Carson offers a lifetime warranty on these binoculars. The focusing knob has a small amount of slack in it, and the lens caps can pop off easily.
Pros
- Rubber textured exterior for best grip,
- Fully multicoated lenses for clear and sharp views,
- Good for low light settings,
- Hassle free warranty
Cons
- Lens caps pop off easily,
- Focusing knob has some slack
5. Celestron Nature DX 8×42 Outdoor and Birding Binocular
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Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.8 Pounds (0.8 kg) Size: 5.3 x 4.9 x 2 Inches (13.5 x 12.4 x 5.1 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm Magnification: 8x Eye Relief: 18mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
The Celestron Nature DX 8×42 Binocular can be used for a variety of activities like birding and hunting. The wide field of view can help you catch the rapid movements of the birds or animals in the wild. Since the binocular is waterproof and fog proof, you can rest assured that it will be well-protected from the elements of the weather. This is also partly due to the robust exterior of the binocular. Those wearing glasses may be glad to know that there is long eye relief on this pair of binoculars. A downside of this product is that the eyepieces may fall off if you are careless. Also, the binocular is slightly heavy.
Pros
- Waterproof and fog proof,
- Easily adjustable eye cups,
- Robust, well-built binocular,
- Long eye relief
Cons
- Eyepieces are not tightly secured,
- Binocular is slightly heavy
6. Nikon 16002 PROSTAFF 7S 8×42 Inches All-Terrain Binocular
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Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.4 Pounds (0.6 kg) Size: 6.6 x 5.1 x 1.6 Inches (16.8 x 13 x 4.1 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm Magnification: 8x Waterproof: Yes Stabilization: No Video: No |
The Nikon 16002 PROSTAFF 7S 8×42 Inches All-Terrain Binocular comes with a 42 mm objective lens and a 8 x magnification ability. The phase correction coated roof prisms enhance views while maintaining a compact size. The fully multi coated lenses keep images sharp and crisp. These binoculars come with adjustable eyecups that work well for use with eyeglasses. They are made with a durable rubber armor that keeps them from being dropped even if they get wet. The optical chambers are nitrogen filled to help keep fog and moisture out so they can be used in a variety of climates. They are protected with a 1 year manufacturer warranty. Some users recommend replacing the lens covers with higher quality ones. Also, there are lots of reported chromatic aberrations.
Pros
- Sharp optics,
- lighweight and compact design,
- 1 year warranty,
- Protective pouch and lens covers included
Cons
- Lens covers are poor quality,
- Lots of chromatic aberrations
7. Bushnell Trophy Roof Binoculars
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Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.6 Pounds (0.7 kg) Size: 7.4 x 6.8 x 4.1 Inches (18.8 x 17.3 x 10.3 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm Magnification: 10X Eye Relief: 15.2mm Waterproof: Yes |
The Bushnell Trophy XLT binoculars offer exceptional clarity at an economical price. You will get sharp and bright views through these binoculars, all with quality magnification. The binoculars are also sensitive to low light to provide better image clarity.
The binoculars come with an adjustable neck strap, keeping the weight off your neck and providing a comfortable experience. Adjustment of focus is also easy, quick, and smooth. Additionally, the ergonomic grip on the body prevents your hands from cramping. The only downside to the binoculars is that they might mist over easily in some climates. But the overall experience is quite pleasant.
Pros
- Provide clear view in daylight and lowlight,
- Provides a smooth focusing experience,
- Has an ergonomic build and hand grips for comfortable hold,
- Has a durable construction
Cons
- Not completely fog proof as advertised,
- Instruction for use are unclear
8. Nikon 7245 Action 10×50 EX Extreme All-Terrain Binocular
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Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.3 Pounds (0.1 kg) Size: 9.5 x 8.4 x 4.6 Inches (24.1 x 21.3 x 11.7 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm Magnification: 10x Waterproof: Yes Stabilization: No Video: No |
The Nikon 7245 Action 10×50 EX Extreme All-Terrain Binocular features a 50 mm objective lens with a 10x magnification ability. These binoculars have a metal chassis supported by a polycarbonate shell making them very durable. There is a rubber exterior that allows for a non-slip grip. The high index sBAK4 Porro prism and fully multi-coated Eco-Glass lenses provide lightweight optics that are sharp and clear. The optics are nitrogen filled and sealed with O-rings to prevent moisture and fog from getting inside. They have a large central focusing knob that allows for very quick focusing ability. The Nikon warranty provides a 25 year limited warranty. These bino
culars are pretty heavy, but durable. The eye covers are pretty flimsy so be careful not to lose them.
Pros
- Lifetime Nikon warranty,
- Good for use with eyeglasses,
- Sharp optics,
- Good for low light settings
9. Nikon 8250 ACULON A211 16×50 Binocular
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Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 3 Pounds (1.4 kg) Size: 8.6 x 4.3 x 4.3 Inches (21.8 x 10.8 x 10.8 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 16x Eye Relief: 12.6 Waterproof: Waterproof |
The Nikon 8250 ACULON A211 16×50 is good for a variety of activities like birding and sporting events. Since the lenses are waterproof, you can put your mind at ease when using it outdoors. The rubber exterior also provides good protection so you do not have to worry that it will be easily damaged. Furthermore, it will provide good comfort when you use it for a long period. We also like how the eyecups are easy to adjust. However, there are also certain limitations. Firstly, it might take some time to manipulate the focus dial, as it is not particularly easy to focus the images. This is partly because the focus dial does not have a smooth movement when adjusting.
Pros
- Waterproof,
- Rubber exterior provides good protection,
- Eyecups are easy to adjust,
- Binocular is comfortable to hold
Cons
- Hard to focus the images,
- Adjustment of binocular is not smooth
Verdict
TLDR: Quick summary of our findings as to what can be considered the best binoculars for under 200 is below:
Overall best best binoculars for under 200 out there: 10×42 Vortex Optics Crossfire HD Binoculars
Premium Pick if money is not much of an issue: Gosky EagleView 10×42 ED Binoculars with Smartphone Mount
Budget Choice – there’s no shame in spending prudently: Nikon Prostaff 3s Binocular
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying Best Binoculars For Under 200
Magnification
Binoculars with a high magnification may sometimes not be beneficial. For instance when hunting/fishing, you do not want a binoculars with magnification that is too high because it reduces the quality of the images. The best magnification is between 7X and 8X. High magnification narrows the field of view, but if your aim is to zoom in on far away items, then higher magnification is your best bet.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens’ size determines the amount of light entering the binoculars. Therefore, the larger it is, the better the image in terms of quality, especially in dark places. When buying a pair of binoculars, check for the lens size, which is the numeric figure right after the X on its description. A ratio of 5 to magnification is best, so in a case where you have an 8 X 25 versus a 8 X 40, the 8 X 40 has better images because generally the lens diameter is wider.
Angles Of Vliew
The angle of view is the perspective you can see through your binoculars lens. The larger it is, the larger the field of view is. The angle of view is measured in degrees and is usually a low number such as 6 degrees or 7 degrees. If you need a pair of binoculars with a large field of view, make sure to look for the one with the highest number among those offered. At times the number is higher such, as 45 degrees or 55 degrees, but is still expressed in degrees. It’s known as the apparent angle of view, and the larger it is, the larger the field of view.
Durability
A quality pair of binoculars can be a hefty investment, hence finding a pair that is long lasting and hardy is important. Get a pair with lens coating to protect them against damage from dust or debris. Waterproofed or fog-proofed binoculars are also good as they protect the lens and body surface, ensuring the longevity of the binoculars. However, always dry off your binoculars if they have water on them, even though they are waterproof. Lastly, its always doot to get a pair with lifetime warranty such as those from Nikon.
Accessories
Depending on the design of your binoculars, it may come with some additional accessories such as neck straps, caps, rain guards, harness, a bag and tripod adapters. Some of these accessories should help to protect your binoculars against damage. For instance, the rain guards are extremely useful in tropical climate where there’s rainfall, that way, the droplets won’t get in your way or damage your binoculars. The neck straps or lanyards make it easier to carry the binoculars around hands free. Lastly, the lens covers help protect the lenses from damage by dust, debris or even water droplets.
Questions and Answers About Best Binoculars For Under 200
Which is better 8×42 or 10×42 binoculars?
It really depends on what you are trying to view. If you are trying to view a bird within a mid-range distance, a 8×42 would be better because it provides a wider view. This can really help you follow the bird closely. In contrast, a 10×42 can be used more appropriately for viewing objects from mid-range
to long-range distances.
What’s the difference between marine binoculars and regular binoculars?
Marine binoculars have individual adjustment knob for each eye, while regular binoculars have a central adjusting knob for both eyes. Marine binoculars have a lower magnification compared to standard binoculars due to shaking caused by the waves (hence often come with automatic stabilization). Most marine binoculars have a reticle scale to measure distance, while some regular binoculars do not. Some marine binoculars have extra Night Vision eyepieces, while regular binoculars are mostly used during the day.
What is a good field of view for binoculars?
Binoculars with a good field of view (F.O.V) should allow you to see more of the terrain and detect your prey without having to adjust your binoculars. Additionally, when targeting a moving animal, binoculars with a good field of view should also support a long-distance view within the circular frame of lenses without shifting the binoculars. In general for a distance of 1,000 meters, most high-quality binoculars have a field of view of 300 to 375 feet.
What is the best optical zoom for binoculars?
The recommended optical zoom for your binoculars is a magnification of up to 10X. High magnification will often lower the quality of the images. The images will be blurry and less stable due to hand movements. High magnification also narrows the field of view and reduces the brightness of the images. It’s preferable to use a tripod if you’re using your binoculars for a magnified view.
How far can you see with night vision binoculars?
How far you can see through a pair of night vision binoculars depends on factors like the device’s viewing range – retention and recognition range. With simple night vision binoculars, you can see as far as a distance of 400-800 feet, while higher-quality binoculars may allow you to see over a distance of 1300 feet. However, visibility, weather conditions, and the size of prey can all alter how far you can see with night vision binoculars.