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A quality binocular will quickly become one of your indispensable outdoor gear. And such a binocular should be compact and portable, have good optical performance as well as a quality and durable build.
If you’ve ever researched binoculars, you’ll know that they can range from inexpensive toys for kids to professional models that cost thousands of dollars. If you are on a budget below $100, does that mean you do not get a quality binocular?
The thing is you do not have to break the bank to get a binocular with good functionality. There are a number of bargain binoculars in the market that will meet all your needs without going beyond your budget.
We’ve compiled a list of the best binoculars under $100 available in the market. If you are a beginner or an outdoor enthusiast looking for a quality budget binocular, you are at the right place.
First, we’ll take you through the reviews of the best binoculars under 100 dollars, giving you all the information you need to know about them. After that comes a buying guide so you know what to look out for in binoculars. Here we go.
Reviews & Buying Guide Contents
The 7 Best Binoculars Under 100 Dollars for 2024
- Celestron SkyMaster 12×60 Binoculars
- WildVis 12×42 Binoculars
- Wingspan Optics Voyager 10X42 Binoculars
- Gosky 10×42 Roof Prism Binoculars
- Stellax ZoomX 10×42 Binoculars
- Bushnell H2O Porro Prism 10×42 Binocular
- Celestron Nature DX 10×32 BinocularOur Top Pick
How To Choose The Best Binoculars
- Binoculars Size and Weight
- Magnification and Objective Lens Diameter
- Field of View
- Waterproofing & Fog-Proofing
- Types of Glass
- Lens Coatings
The 7 Best Binoculars Under 100 Dollars for 2024
Celestron SkyMaster 12×60 Binoculars
This SkyMaster series by Celestron includes a group of powerful binoculars that comes at an affordable price. These binoculars are easy to handle thanks to the protective rubber coating that allows you to maintain a firm grip.
Equipped with multi-coated optics and high index BAK4 prisms, this binocular transmits light superbly. And this results in images of high contrast and resolution. The large objective lens (60mm) allows a lot of light to enter this binocular. And this allows the Celestron 12×60 to function well in low light situations.
This binocular provides higher magnification than standard binoculars and can be used for stargazing and astronomy. If you are the type that loves to gaze at the night sky, this is the binocular you’ve been looking for. Overall, it’s very versatile and can be used for different outdoor activities.
It also has a wide field of view which allows you to keep track of fast-moving creatures when you are outdoors. There’s also a large center knob that can be easily used to focus this binocular. And the long eye relief means people wearing glasses can easily use this binocular.
There are other binoculars in the SkyMaster range you can look into if you are looking for more magnification, especially for astronomy. The Celestron 12×60 is very sturdy and durable. And you’ll be using it for a long time.
Quick Specifications
- Magnification : 12x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 60 mm / 2.36 in
- Dimensions : 8.1 x 8.25 x 2.8 in / 20.6 x 20.9 x 7 cm
- Weight : 2.45 lbs / 1.11 kg
- Field of view: 278 ft @ 1000 yards
Pros
- Great value.
- Compact and portable.
- Very easy to use.
- Excellent optical performance.
- Includes a range of accessories.
- Durable.
Cons
- A bit bulky.
WildVis 12×42 Binoculars
WildVis 12x42 Binoculars for Adults Compact Binocular Prism BAK4 FMC Lens Waterproof HD Binoculars for Bird Watching Hunting with Carrying Bag
This binocular has a sleek design which makes it aesthetically pleasing. It’s portable and lightweight, making it your ideal travel companion. Also, the lightweight design allows you to comfortably use this binocular for extended periods. The Wildvis 12×42 is also multifunctional and can be used for stargazing, bird watching, during hiking, camping and more.
This binocular is waterproof and water will not get into the interior. However, do not use it in heavy rainfall. This binocular had good optical performance thanks to the BAK4 prism and fully multi-coated objective lens. You’ll get sharp images with resolution.
You can also use your smartphones with this binocular as it is compatible with a phone adapter. And the anti-slip design helps ensure that this binocular will not fall off your hands during use. The eye relief allows users wearing glasses to be able to use this binocular comfortably.
This binocular is very rugged and can easily withstand the elements. And you’ll be using it for a long time.
Quick Specifications
- Magnification : 12x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm / 1.65 in
- Dimensions : 7.1 x 6.2 x 3.1 in / 18 x 15.7 x 7.8 cm
- Weight : 860 g / 1.9 lbs
- Field of view: 278 ft @ 1000 yards
Pros
- Lightweight design.
- Very easy to use.
- Provides clear and colorful images.
- Compatible with a wide range of smartphones.
- Long eye relief.
- Versatile.
- Durable.
Cons
- N/A
Wingspan Optics Voyager 10X42 Binoculars
Wingspan Optics Voyager 10X42 High Powered Binoculars for Bird Watching. Bright and Clear Views - Waterproof and Fog Proof - for Bird Watching, Hiking and...
This binocular will provide you great value for your money. The 10x magnification and 42mm objective lens diameter means you’ll be enjoying colorful images with high contrast and resolution. If you are a beginner looking for a quality binocular, there aren’t many that are better than the Wingspan Optics Voyager 10×42 High Powered Binoculars.
This binocular is also compact and lightweight. You can easily take it with you during any of your outdoor activities. The small size also means you can let children take a peek and stare into the beauty of the outdoors. This binocular is also waterproof and fog-proof. It’s very rugged and built to withstand the harshest weather conditions.
The Bak-4 prism as well as the multi-coated optics result in excellent light transmission. And this results in great optical performance. The wide field of view also improves your viewing experience. And the central knob makes focusing easy. You can go from wide view to the sharpest focus in seconds.
Quick Specifications
- Magnification : 10x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm / 1.7 in
- Dimensions : 3.1 x 7.8 x 1.8 in / 7.8 x 19.8 x 4.6 cm
- Weight : 760 g / 1.82 lbs
- Field of view: 283 ft @ 1000 yards
Pros
- Compact and portable.
- Easy to use.
- Good optical performance.
- Waterproof and fog-proof.
- Versatile.
- Long-lasting.
Cons
- No major shortcoming.
Gosky 10×42 Roof Prism Binoculars
A single look at this binocular and you may think it’s just like any other binocular in the market. But it’s not. This binocular comes with some high-tech features that sets it apart from other binoculars.
You’ll be really impressed with the quality of the optics. The FMC coatings reduce glare and result in optimal light transmission. And the 10x magnification and wide field of view makes it suitable for climbing, hiking, watching wildlife and scenery e.t.c. The BAK4 prism provides you with the brightest and clearest images possible.
The twist-up eyecups coupled with the long eye relief allow people wearing glasses to be able to comfortably use this binocular. And the sealed O-ring makes this binocular waterproof and fog-proof.
This binocular is also compatible with a wide range of smartphones. You can easily pair this binocular with your phone. This allows you to see through the binoculars on the screen of your smartphone. People wearing glasses will find this feature very convenient.
This binocular is also very rugged and sturdy. And you’ll be using it for a long time.
Quick Specifications
- Magnification : 10x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm / 1.65 in
- Dimensions : 5.51 x 6.30 x 2.17 in / 14 x 16 x 5.5 cm
- Weight : 570 g / 1.25 lbs
- Field of view: 307 ft @ 1000 yards
Pros
- Portable design.
- Good optical performance.
- Compatible with a wide range of smartphones.
- Waterproof and fog-proof.
- Long eye relief.
- Very versatile.
- Rugged and durable.
Cons
- Carrying case isn’t of the highest quality.
Stellax ZoomX 10×42 Binoculars
The Stella ZoomX has a number of professional features that make it a total bargain. The advanced optic technologies (BAK4 prism and FMC coating) provides you with colorful and crystal images even in the dark or low light situations.
This binocular is very portable and travel friendly. It even comes with a stylish carry case that makes carrying this bag very easy. The special rubber coating on this binocular protects it from mechanical stress. Also, you’ll be able to maintain a firm grip on this binocular.
This binocular has the IPX 7 standard water protection. It’s waterproof and can withstand being submerged to a depth of 1.5m. This binocular is also nitrogen-filled, making it fog-proof. The ergonomic design allows you to comfortably handle this binocular. And the newest phone adapter allows you to see through this binocular on the screen of your phone.
Quick Specifications
- Magnification : 10x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm / 1.65 in
- Dimensions : 6 x 2.1 x 5 in / 15.2 x 5.3 x 12.7 cm
- Weight : 540 g / 1.2 lbs
- Field of view: 305 ft @ 1000 yards
Pros
- Lightweight and travel friendly.
- Provides colorful and crystal clear images.
- Ergonomic design.
- Phone adaptable.
- Waterproof and fog-proof.
- Durable.
Cons
- Aligning the lens of the binocular to the smartphone clip adapter may be tricky at first. But you’ll get the hang of it in no time.
Bushnell H2O Porro Prism 10×42 Binoculars
Bushnell is a well-known brand in the binocular space having produced a lot of high-quality binoculars. And this binocular is one of their finest inventions. The soft texture grip allows you to comfortably hold this binocular. You can use the Bushnell H20 for extended viewing without getting tired.
The sealed O-ring and nitrogen purging makes this binocular waterproof and fog-proof. You can use this binocular in the rain without fear of water penetrating the interior. The multi-coated optics and BAK4 prism maximize light transmission and provide clear and colorful images.
The centre focus knob is large and makes focusing this binocular very easy. And the twist-up eyecups and long eye relief makes it comfortable for glass wearers to use this binocular. Also, this binocular is extremely durable as it can easily withstand the elements.
Quick Specifications
- Magnification : 10x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm / 1.65 in
- Dimensions : 7 x 3 x 6 in / 17.8 x 7.6 x 15.2 cm
- Weight : 770 g / 1.69 lbs
- Field of view: 305 ft @ 1000 yards
Pros
- Small and compact.
- Soft texture grip design.
- Produces crystal clear and colorful images.
- Waterproof and fog-proof.
- Long eye relief.
- Durable.
Cons
- N/A.
Celestron Nature DX 10×32 BinocularOur Top Pick
The superb functionality of this binocular makes it a compelling choice for hiking, bird watching, mountaineering and other outdoor activities. It’s very compact and lightweight making it easy to transport. The package also includes a neck strap that makes it easy to carry.
The waterproof material means you can use this binocular in the rain and other wet conditions. And the nitrogen-filled housing makes it fog-proof allowing you to use this binocular even in the harshest conditions.
The large objective lens allows more light to enter this binocular, allowing you to get crystal clear images even in low light conditions. The ample exit pupil size makes this binocular perfect for astronomy and star/moon gazing. This binocular can also be mounted on a tripod for extended viewing sessions.
The twist-up eyecup and eye relief make this binocular comfortable for those that wear glasses. The package also includes a number of accessories such as cleaning cloth, rain guard and neck strap to mention a few.
Quick Specifications
- Magnification : 10x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm / 1.25 in
- Dimensions : 5 x 1.8 x 4.9 in / 12.7 x 4.6 x 12.4
- Weight : 560 g / 1.25 lbs
- Field of view: 304 ft @ 1000 yards
Pros
- Compact and lightweight.
- Good optical performance.
- Performs well in low light situations.
- Waterproof and fogproof.
- Includes accessories.
- Versatile.
- Durable.
Cons
- N/A.
Best Binoculars Under 100 Dollars – How To Choose?
Now that we’ve recommended the top binoculars under $100 for you, let’s take you through all you need to know about binoculars so you can make an informed decision when buying one. So here are the things you should look out for before buying a binocular.
Binoculars Size and Weight
This feature is self-explanatory. You should consider the size of any binocular before buying it. Since you’ll be taking your binocular along on your outdoor adventures, it makes sense to go for lightweight binoculars. This is because they are small, compact and travel friendly.
Also, you’ll be able to hold or use these binoculars for long periods without getting tired.
Magnification and Objective Lens Diameter
When it comes to optics, binoculars are defined by their magnification and objective lens diameter. You must have seen something like 10×42 in the reviews above. The magnification power is written first and it refers to the number of times your binocular enlarges the image you are seeing. Sometimes the magnification power is written alone as 10x, 8x.. A binocular with magnification power of 10 enlarges the image you are seeing ten times.
The other number is the objective lens diameter. The larger the objective diameter, the more your binocular will let in. And this results in sharper and clearer images.
Field of View
The field of view refers to the width of the image that is visible when using your binocular. The larger the field of view, the more you see what’s going on. And you’ll be able to locate and follow objects easily.
However, the higher the magnification of your binocular, the lower the field of view.
Waterproofing and Fog-proofing
Waterproof binoculars have fully sealed O-rings and protect your binocular from rain, wet conditions and dust. Some binoculars are ‘water-resistant’. These types of binoculars do not have fully sealed O-rings and can only withstand splashes of water or slight showers. It’s important for you to take note of the exact term used.
Fog-proof binoculars come with a gas filled chassis (usually nitrogen or argon). Should water enter your binocular, it’ll condense on the lens and cause fogging. And this will reduce image quality as well as durability. Fog-proofing helps prevent this.
Also, fog-proofing allows you to use the binoculars in the fog. Note that all fog-proof binoculars are waterproof but not all waterproof binoculars are fog-proof.
Types of Glass
If you want a binocular with good optical performance, then you should look out for the glass material used to manufacture the lens. One of the most popular types of glass used in binoculars is BAK4 which is used in a lot of high-end binoculars. And the reason for that is the high-refractive index and excellent light transmission of BAK4. No other glass materials come close to BAK4. It’s simply the best.
Other glass materials used include BK7 and SK15. These materials also have excellent light transmission properties as well as high refractive indices.
Lens Coatings
The lenses of binoculars are usually coated with anti-reflective materials to improve optical performance. These anti-reflective layers reduce glare and increase light transmission for brighter and clearer images. clear brighter viewing.
Binoculars are usually multi-coated or fully multi-coated. Fully multi-coated lenses have all the surfaces coated with anti-reflective materials and are usually found in high-end binoculars. Multi-coated lenses are found in midrange and lower end models and they produce basic image clarity.
Final Thoughts
These were the best binoculars under 100 dollars as of today in 2024! As you can see, you can get quality binoculars that price. And we have revealed the hidden gems in the market to you. Some of these binoculars perform almost as well as the high-end ones. No kidding.
So get yourself a bargain and order one of these binoculars.
