5 of the Best Binoculars Under $1000 With Top Notch Optic Performance Plus A Buyer’s Guide

Best binoculars under 1000$In this guide, we will share best binoculars under $1000 with detailed reviews.

Let’s face it, serious glassing and optics come at a hefty price and for serious hunters, bird watchers, and fishing experts, a binocular with the right specs is worth every penny.

After going through tons of reviews and looking at the best available options for professionals and enthusiast alike, we came up with this list of top binoculars that you can get for under $1000.

Similar guides:
Best Binoculars under $300

Check them out.

[wpsm_titlebox title=”Top pick” style=”3″]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]
[/wpsm_column]
[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”]
[wpsm_highlight color=”blue”]Zeiss 524212 Conquest HD 10×42

[/wpsm_highlight]
[/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]
Zeiss 524212 Conquest HD 10x42
[/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”]

[wpsm_list type=”check” hover=”1″ gap=”small”]

  • Schmidt-Pechan Roof Prisms
  • HD Lens System
  • Multi-Layer Coating
  • LotuTec Protective Coating
  • Large Focusing Wheel & Twist-Up Eyecups
  • Waterproof and Fogproof

[/wpsm_list]

[wpsm_button color=”red” size=”big” link=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0073V4MTY/?tag=opticzoo-20″ icon=”none” class=”” border_radius=”0 px” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”]Check now[/wpsm_button]

[/wpsm_column]

We’ve tested 5 binoculars under 1000$ and the winner is above!
[/wpsm_titlebox]

Binoculars Under 1000$ Comparison Chart

Model

Zeiss 524212 Conquest HD

Zeiss 524212 Conquest HD

Meopta MeoPro HD

Meopta MeoPro HD

Vortex Optics RZB-2103 Razor

Vortex Optics RZB-2103 Razor

Steiner HX

Steiner HX 8x42

MINOX 62236 BL

MINOX 62236 BL

Size

10x42

10x42

10x50

8x42

10x44

Eye Relief/ Exit Pupil

18mm/ 4.2mm

18mm/ 4.2mm

16.5mm/ 5mm

18.5 mm/ 5.3mm

17 mm/ 4.4 mm

Optics Coating

LotuTec/T-Multi-Layer Coating

Fully multi-coated

Fully multi-coated

Fully multi-coated

Multi-coated

Water Resistance

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Weight

795 g

26 oz

28.1 oz

27.7 oz

1.6 pounds

Check on Amazon

Check on Amazon

Check on Amazon

Check on Amazon

Check on Amazon

Check on B&H

Check on B&H

Check on B&H

Check on B&H

Check on B&H

5 Best Binoculars Under 1000$ (as of April, 2024):

[wpsm_box type=”dashed_border” float=”none” text_align=”left” width=”100%” ]

1. Zeiss 524212 Conquest HD 10×42 Binocular Under 1000$ – Best For Bird Watching Review

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]

Editor's Choice Icon

Zeiss 524212 Conquest HD 10x42

[/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”]
[wpsm_list type=”check” hover=”1″ gap=”medium”]

  • Schmidt-Pechan Roof Prisms
  • HD Lens System & Multi-Layer Coating
  • Aluminum Housing & LotuTec Protective Coating
  • Apparent Angle of view: 66°
  • Large Focusing Wheel & Twist-Up Eyecups
  • Waterproof and Fogproof

[wpsm_button color=”blue” size=”medium” link=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0073V4MTY/?tag=opticzoo-20″ icon=”none” class=”” border_radius=”0 px” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”]Check Price on Amazon![/wpsm_button]

[rehub_affbtn btn_text=”Check Price on B&H Photovideo!” btn_url=”https://bhpho.to/30sZQp1″ target=”_blank” ]
[/wpsm_column]

[/wpsm_box]

When it comes to making killer optics, Zeiss (a renowned German manufacturer) is a household name that most professionals are aware of.

The company has been around for a while and its binoculars are used for sporting, wildlife viewing and hunting with reports of nothing short of remarkable performance.

The Zeiss 524212 Conquest HD 10×42 is built for serious hunters who enjoy viewing every last detail.

Design

It is built with a compact comfortable design that is also lightweight with an ergonomic design that is built for nothing less than top performance while in the great outdoors.

Lenses

Optics performance is off the charts as this binocular comes with HD lenses that let you view Mother Nature in high definition image quality. You get the widest field of view with this binocular and the results are a stunning color display with crisp clear images.

Coating

Plus, Zeiss 524212 Conquest HD 10×42 brings about remarkable light transmission set at about 90 percent all thanks to Carl Zeiss T* multi-coating design.

[wpsm_box type=”info” float=”none” text_align=”left”]
The built-in prism coating is dielectric meaning this binocular will deliver amazing image clarity even in low light.
[/wpsm_box]

Technologies

When it comes to the overall body quality, you get the famous LotuTec water-shedding technology that keeps this binocular resistant to weather elements.

As if that is not enough, the Zeiss 524212 Conquest HD 10×42 gives a solid grip thanks to a comfortable body design that can be used even with gloves on.

Performance

With a budget of $1000, there is no doubt that you are seeking top-tier binoculars for the price. Well, that is exactly what you are getting with the Zeiss 524212 Conquest HD 10×42. It comes with an ample eye relief size that makes it comfortable to use with the glasses on.

Zeiss 524212 Conquest HD 10x42 Review, Pros and Cons. Check our Best For Bird Watching 2018

In fact, the eyecups on this binocular are built to rotate and lock for your convenience. The only downside is that it does not provide an image stabilization mechanism with its lenses as is common with rivals at the same price range.

What in the box?

  • Zeiss 524212 Conquest HD
  • Tethered Objective Lens Covers
  • Comfort Neck Strap

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]

  • Comfortable body design
  • Durable build quality
  • Water and fog resistant
  • Nitrogen filled

[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]

  • Expensive
  • Does not offer image stabilization

[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]

Zeiss 10×42 Conquest HD Binocular with LotuTec Protective Coating Black:

[wpsm_box type=”dashed_border” float=”none” text_align=”left” width=”100%” ]

2. Meopta MeoPro HD 10×42 Binocular Under 1000$ – Best Pocket-Friendly Pick Review

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]

Best Value Icon

Meopta MeoPro HD 10x42

[/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”]
[wpsm_list type=”check” hover=”1″ gap=”medium”]

  • HD Extra-Low Dispersion Objectives
  • Roof Prisms
  • MeoBright Ion & MeoShield Multi-Coating
  • Twist-up Eyecups & Large Central Focus Knob
  • Ergonomic Rubber Armoring
  • Waterproof and Fogproof

[wpsm_button color=”blue” size=”medium” link=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N6VTYPM/?tag=opticzoo-20″ icon=”none” class=”” border_radius=”0 px” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”]Check Price on Amazon![/wpsm_button]

[rehub_affbtn btn_text=”Check Price on B&H Photovideo!” btn_url=”https://bhpho.to/30t1I11″ target=”_blank” ]
[/wpsm_column]

[/wpsm_box]

Whether you need optics for hunting, sporting or simply watching wildlife, most experts will agree that you simply do not come up with a list of premium binoculars without mentioning Meopta.

This manufacturer has been giving serious hunters quality optics since 1933. The company boasts of creating professional grade optics that go beyond the expected level of performance.

With that said, you can expect nothing short of perfect viewing of your subject with the Meopta MeoPro HD 10×42.

Design

Just by the look of it, this roof prism binocular brings about a fashionable look with a minimal body to go with it. It’s lightweight for comfortable viewing even after hours of having it over your face.

[wpsm_box type=”info” float=”none” text_align=”left”]
The resolution it provides is sharp enough even for the most discerning users and it has a wide field of view with 10x magnification on your images for brilliant neutral color presentations.
[/wpsm_box]

Coating

Thanks to the fully multi-coated MB550 lens glass mechanism, this binocular produces premium grade optics that you will only find with top dollar products.

You also get ample eye relief size with eye-cups that twist-up to give you more imaging position even with your glasses on.

Performance

If you can’t live another day without going to watch the majestic hawk, shorebirds or waterfowl, this is the one gear you need to have on your next bird watching trip. It offers a decent amount of extended observing sessions that make it comfortable and easy to use.

Meopta MeoPro HD 10x42 Review, Pros and Cons. Check our Best Pocket-Friendly Pick 2018

The focusing system works well to bring clarity and sharpness to your images. Plus, the neutral color presentation is great for viewing every detail while out in the wild.

Compared to its rivals, the Meopta MeoPro HD 10×42 provides a decent bargain for its quality features which is a good thing. Let’s just say it’s the best optics by any standard.

Specification

  • Magnification: 10
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
  • Eye relief: 18 mm
  • Eye pupil: 4.2 mm
  • Coating: Fully multi-coated
  • Water Resistance: Yes
  • Weight: 26 oz

What in the box?

  • Meopta MeoPro HD
  • Rainguard Eyepiece Cover
  • Tethered objective lens covers
  • Microfiber Lens Cleaning Cloth
  • Comfort Neck Strap
  • Soft Case

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]

  • Premium body quality
  • Reliable optics performance
  • Accessories included in the package
  • Comes with a transferable lifetime warranty

[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]

  • The diopter ring is slightly hard to adjust

[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_box type=”dashed_border” float=”none” text_align=”left” width=”100%” ]

3. Vortex Optics RZB-2103 Razor 10×50 Binocular Under 1000$ – Ideal For Stargazing Review

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]

Budget Pick Icon

Vortex Optics RZB-2103 Razor 10x50

[/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”]
[wpsm_list type=”check” hover=”1″ gap=”medium”]

  • Fully Multi-Coated
  • Roof Prism
  • Rubber Armor & Center Focus Wheel
  • Adjustable Eyecups
  • Diopter & Tripod Adaptable
  • Waterproof and Fogproof

[wpsm_button color=”blue” size=”medium” link=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BIKFDAS/?tag=opticzoo-20″ icon=”none” class=”” border_radius=”0 px” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”]Check Price on Amazon![/wpsm_button]

[rehub_affbtn btn_text=”Check Price on B&H Photovideo!” btn_url=”https://bhpho.to/30wgHqU” target=”_blank” ]
[/wpsm_column]

[/wpsm_box]

From coming up with quality sporting scopes, brilliant monocular, tripods, rangefinders, and now amazing binoculars, Vortex continues to outdo itself in the making of top-tier optics.

That is why we had to feature their Vortex Optics RZB-2103 Razor 10×50 in our list.

Lenses

With a 10x magnification and a 50mm objective lens length, this binocular is by far one of the best in its class especially for professional hunters and hiking enthusiasts.

It provides the expected magnesium chassis that holds its edge when putting through the paces even in unimaginable extreme conditions.

It has an o-ring seal and boasts of argon purging that keeps its fog and waterproof for life.

Grip

The rugged armor also comes with a comfortable grip with an overall body that is ergonomically designed for comfort.

Not only is this binocular built for premium quality optics performance, but the Vortex Optics RZB-2103 Razor 10×50 also pushes every limit there is in optics engineering to bring about unparallel resolution.

[wpsm_box type=”info” float=”none” text_align=”left”]
The prisms on this model are hand selected from high-density glass to create stunning image clarity with state of the art coating. The result is brighter images with vivid colors even in twilight conditions.
[/wpsm_box]

Performance

Ask any optics enthusiast and they will admit that the Vortex Optics RZB-2103 Razor 10×50 is one of the few options you will find out there with the light gathering capacity for star gazing at night.

Vortex Optics RZB-2103 Razor 10x50 Review, Pros and Cons. Check our Ideal For Stargazing 2018

Basically, this is a new model of the Razor line. It is capable of extremely clear viewing, especially at night. You can easily mount it on a tripod and enjoy a night of star and moon gazing.

Specification

  • Magnification: 10x
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
  • Eye Relief: 16.5mm
  • Exit Pupil: 5 mm
  • Linear Field of View: 315 ft / 1000 yd
  • Angular Field of View: 6 degrees
  • Close Focus: 10 ft
  • Interpupillary Distance: 57-74 mm
  • Height: 6.8 in
  • Width: 5.1 in
  • Weight: 28.1 oz

What in the box?

  • Vortex Optics RZB-2103 Razor
  • Rainguard Eyepiece Cover
  • Tethered Objective Lens Covers
  • Comfort Neck Strap
  • Deluxe Padded Carry Case

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]

  • Detailed viewing even at a far distance
  • Lightweight comfortable design
  • Intuitive design
  • Features a rain guard technology

[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]

  • Shallow field of focus
  • Expansive but Worth it

[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]

Vortex Razor HD Binoculars:

[wpsm_box type=”dashed_border” float=”none” text_align=”left” width=”100%” ]

4. Steiner HX 8×42 – Best Binocular For Hiking And Camping Review

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]

Steiner HX 8x42

[/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”]
[wpsm_list type=”check” hover=”1″ gap=”medium”]

  • Compact Roof Prisms
  • Fully Multi-Coated Optics
  • Proprietary Nano-Protection Coatings
  • Left-Eye Dioptric Correction
  • Waterproof and Fogproof

[wpsm_button color=”blue” size=”medium” link=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BE82LZ8/?tag=opticzoo-20″ icon=”none” class=”” border_radius=”0 px” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”]Check Price on Amazon![/wpsm_button]

[rehub_affbtn btn_text=”Check Price on B&H Photovideo!” btn_url=”https://bhpho.to/30wgTXa” target=”_blank” ]
[/wpsm_column]

[/wpsm_box]

With a bone for superb performance built into each of its products since 1967, Steiner is another German manufacturer that boasts of remarkable engineering in all its products.

Durability

The company was among the first to use a rubber armored housing binoculars with a lightweight indestructible construct.

That is why the Steiner HX 8×42 is a go-to for most professionals looking for rugged and durable binoculars.

It has a body frame that is easy to grip and the eyecups are uniquely designed to be both comfortable and protective with side light drafts.

[wpsm_box type=”info” float=”none” text_align=”left”]
The optics feature a roof prism design that boasts of advanced lens coating for high light transmission even in low light.
[/wpsm_box]

It has a fast-close – focus capacity that makes it easy to use whenever you need to achieve clear viewing.

Performance

Nothing beats the joy of getting your money’s worth. With the Steiner HX 8×42, you do not only get an affordable premium binocular but also get to enjoy a bunch of accessories including an objective lens cover, Rain guard, a strap and a case for storage.

Steiner HX 8x42 Review, Pros and Cons. Check our Best Binocular For Hiking And Camping 2018

This here is a great option for those looking for a compact binocular with a wide field of view that will make their bird watching effortless. It can hold its edge well even in extreme conditions making it a good pick for hiking and hunting as well.

Specification

  • Magnification 8x
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
  • Eye relief: 18.5mm
  • Eye pupil: 5.3mm
  • Coating: Fully multi-coated
  • Field of View:;377 ft. at 1000 yds.
  • Dimensions: 5.8 x 4.9 x 2.6 in.
  • Close Focus: 6 ft.
  • Waterproofing: Waterproof/Nitrogen Purged
  • Prism Material Phase-coated: BaK-4
  • Armoring Rubber
  • Eye Cups: Wrap-around Slide-up
  • Design Type: Roof Prism
  • Tripod adaptable: No
  • Rangefinder: No
  • Weight 27.7 oz
  • Width 4.9
  • Height 5.8

What in the box?

  • Steiner HX 8×42
  • Rainguard Eyepiece Cover
  • Objective Lens Covers
  • Comfort Neck Strap
  • Soft Case

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]

  • Powerful magnification
  • lightweight body
  • High precision prism system
  • Rubber armor for durability
  • Lifetime warranty included

[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]

  • A bit bulky for some users

[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]

Steiner HX Binoculars:

[wpsm_box type=”dashed_border” float=”none” text_align=”left” width=”100%” ]

5. MINOX 62236 BL 10×44 – Best Option For Hunting Review

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”]

MINOX 62236 BL 10x44

[/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”]
[wpsm_list type=”check” hover=”1″ gap=”medium”]

  • Phase-Corrected Roof Prism
  • High-Density Fully Multi-Coated Optics
  • Adjustable Diopter with Twisting Eyecups
  • Knurled Center Focus Wheel
  • Low-Weight, Open Bridge Polycarbonate Body
  • Waterproof and Fogproof

[wpsm_button color=”blue” size=”medium” link=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BO5BPSU/?tag=opticzoo-20″ icon=”none” class=”” border_radius=”0 px” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”]Check Price on Amazon![/wpsm_button]

[rehub_affbtn btn_text=”Check Price on B&H Photovideo!” btn_url=”https://bhpho.to/30DQUgk” target=”_blank” ]
[/wpsm_column]

[/wpsm_box]

If you are a buck country hunter, the MINOX 62236 BL 10×44 will impress you if what you are looking for is a lightweight but powerful optics.

It boasts of MINOX ‘s years of experience in the industry but what makes it stand out the most is its fully-multicoated lens system that delivers clear contrasted images.

This binocular offers an open grid system making it pretty comfortable for handling with a single hand.

Plus the body comes in a rubber armored to give it a sturdy anti-slip design that gets you through the roughest conditions.

[wpsm_box type=”info” float=”none” text_align=”left”]
The eye relief is ample enough for users with glasses as it measures about 17 mm and has rotating eye cups that adjust individually for your convenience.
[/wpsm_box]

The binocular is equipped with a phase correction coating on its roof prisms and the watertight mechanism works well to keep out fog and water beads form the nitrogen filled lenses.

Performance

The adjustable eye cups work really well to position your eyes at the right viewing distance. The polycarbonate body makes it extremely light and rugged.

MINOX 62236 BL 10x44 Review, Pros and Cons. Check our Best Option For Hunting 2018

You get a wider field of view allowing you to see moving object sooner even after you have spent hours glancing at your target. To top it all off, MINOX provides a generous warranty on this binocular which is a great deal for its price.

Specification

  • Magnification: 10x
  • Entry pupil (mm): 44
  • Exit pupil (mm): 4,4
  • Field of view at 1.000 m: 114m / 6,5°
  • Eye relief (mm): 17,0
  • Close distance: 2,5m
  • Diopter adjustment: ± 4 dpt
  • Twilight number: 21
  • Geometrical luminosity: 19,36
  • Operating temperature: -10° up to +50° C
  • Waterproof: Down to 5 m
  • Dimensions (HxWxD): 150 x 133 x 53 mm
  • Weight: 740 g

What in the box?

  • MINOX 62236 BL

[/wpsm_toggle]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]

  • Rugged body
  • Weather resistant build
  • Powerful magnification
  • Easy to use
  • Offers a comfortable and excellent grip

[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]

[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]

Buyer’s Guide

Sometimes you have to give some to get some and when it comes to getting the best optics there is out there, you get what you pay for.

With a budget under $1000, it might seem absurd to spend that much on a binocular; however, if you are an avid hunter, bird watcher or hiking enthusiast, you know the difference you can make with a premium pick at that price range.

Magnification and objective lens diameter

You might have seen numbers like this with every binocular i.e. 10×50 or 8×42. These represent the magnification capacity of the binocular and the objective lens diameter respectively. Believe it or not, however, bigger is not always better with optics.

With a magnification as small as 7x you can still achieve vivid images for you hunting or bird watching activities even with top dollar options. After all, higher magnifications significantly reduce the steadiness of the image which is a deal breaker for most users.

Therefore, if you have a magnification of 7x it simply means that your image will be magnified to the power of 7 which mostly works well for most use cases.

Best Binoculars Under 1000$

However, for a budget under $1000, it’s a good idea to settle with a 10x magnification to get long – range observations. To improve steadiness with higher bigger magnification, it’s a good idea to get a tripod while you are at it.

Objective lens diameter

Okay so now you know a thing or two about magnification. Well, let’s take a look at objective lens diameter. To put it simply the objective lens diameter determines the amount of light your binocular can gather.

[wpsm_box type=”info” float=”none” text_align=”left”]
With a larger objective lens diameter, a binocular can capture more light and deliver a brighter view even in low light.
[/wpsm_box]

Variable magnification

In some cases, you will find a binocular with a zoom capacity. In such cases, you will see such like numbers i.e. 8-20×50. This means that you magnification range is variable between 8 mm to 20 mm.

With a zoom binocular, you will often also get a wheel to help you zoom in and out of your images.

However, keep in mind that zoom binoculars come with a couple of drawbacks including a degraded image brightness and sharpness.

Exit pupil

[wpsm_box type=”info” float=”none” text_align=”left”]
The exit pupil is measured in millimeters and determines the amount of light that gets to your eye through the eyepiece when you look into the binocular. The right exit pupil size should be slightly bigger than the size of your, therefore, enabling more light for a brighter viewing.
[/wpsm_box]

With the pupil of the human eye ranging from 1.5 mm to about 3 mm, you will want to go with an exit pupil that is about 8mm and above for a full view of your targets with bright and vivid colors.

Any exit pupil smaller than the average human pupil size will lead to a view that looks similar to peeping through a hole.

Can’t locate the exit pupil of your binocular? Well, it’s actually easy to determine the size of the exit pupil. Just divide the magnification with the objective lens diameter and the result is the size of the exit pupil.

In case your binocular capable of zooming, you can get the best exit pupil results by sticking to the 8x magnification level.

Eye relief

If you wear glasses, picking a binocular with the right eye relief size is crucial. It could make a difference between comfortable viewing and total frustration.

[wpsm_box type=”info” float=”none” text_align=”left”]
The eye relief is basically the distance between your eye and the eyepiece.
[/wpsm_box]

Some options come with eye cups that help establish the right viewing distance. Some manufacturers have binoculars with adjustable eyecups that let users set the right eye relief for their binoculars.

Prism system

Binoculars need prism built inside to correct the orientation of the image and enhance clarity and magnification. There are two main prism systems used in the industry and they are the Porro prism system and the Roof prism system.

With a Porro prism system, the binoculars tend to be chunkier with the eyepiece being offset from the lens tube. This is because the Porro prism system has the prism glass arranged at an angle from the eyepiece.

Even though Porro prism systems provide decent optic performance, they tend to be found in more affordable binoculars. The downside is that Porro prism design does not provide the best system for waterproof and fog proof binoculars.

Best Binoculars Under 1000$

On the other hand, Roof prism designs are pricier than their Porro prism counterparts however they provide more in terms of compact body design for most binoculars.

The roof prism design is able to correct the image orientation without varying the angles of the prism thus the prism glasses maintain a straight line from the point where light enters.

Lens coating

Lens coating simply refers to the layers of anti-reflective coating that the lens glass has. With more lens coating layers the binocular is expected to deliver better light transmission. The result is a brighter image with more color clarity.

There are different levels of lens coating you should be aware of. They include:

  • Coating – Rarely will you find premium binoculars with a single layer of coating. This single layer of coating is mostly found in cheap binoculars and the result is an orange tint that usually has little effect to improve on the image clarity of the binocular.
  • Multi-coating – Here is where most entry-level binoculars fall into. When you see this among the features of a binocular, it usually means that the binocular is coated on more than one surface. This provides a decent amount of performance in terms of image brightness.
  • Fully multi-coating – This is a lens with anti-reflective surfaces in all surfaces. This is a feature you should expect with premium binoculars as it helps improve the quality of the image by completely reducing reflection and increasing light transmission to near 100 percent.

Type of Glass

The type of glass used to make the binoculars’ lens and prism also matter a lot. With the right material, the lens of the binocular will have limited image distortion and improved light transmission for a sharper clear and bright image.

Some of the popular glass materials that exist out there include:

  • BAK4 – This here is a glass designation that stands for Baritleich Kron which is German for Barium Crown. This type of glass material has a high refractive index thanks to its high density and optical quality. Therefore, it produces one of the highest light transmission percentage producing clear images with vivid colors.
  • BK7 – This material comes second in the rankings of the best prism and lens glass material. It is a widely used glass material however it has slightly lower light transmission compared to the BAK4. As a result, the image quality it produces is not as sharp as what you would find on a BAK4.
  • SK15 – This material strikes a balance between the two materials mentioned above. Although it has a high refractive index, it has a dispersion measure that can only be ranked between the BAK4 and the BK7. However, it is also capable of high contrast and clear images.

Build quality

If you plan to use your binoculars to travel to harsh environments and expose it to harsh weather elements the last thing you want is a premium binocular that cannot hold its edge in extreme conditions.

For that reason, there are a couple of features to consider when it comes to the build quality of your binocular.

[wpsm_box type=”info” float=”none” text_align=”left”]
Water and fog proof – get a binocular preferable with an O-ring seal so as to prevent fog and moisture from getting into the lenses and distorting your images.
[/wpsm_box]

Obviously, you might not be planning to go swim with the binocular but having a gear that can withstand pressure even when submerged will be a plus. For fog resistance, some models are filled with nitrogen to further help keep the fog and moisture outside the lens.

Chassis body quality

Apart from aluminum, other materials commonly used include magnesium which features a high strength to weight ratio making it the ideal material for building lighter binoculars.

Lastly, we have binoculars with a polycarbonate chassis. This material also makes work easy for manufacturers and it is better at temperature resistance. This makes binoculars that are made with polycarbonate more capable of holding their edge in extreme weather conditions.

Special features and accessories

Image Stabilization – Some options will come with a capacity for image stabilization to compensate for movements while operating the binocular. This can help you establish a stable image and is a common feature with premium high power optics.

Tripod mount – In case you don’t have image stabilization on your binocular you should check to see if it has a tripod mount. This can help you improve image stability especially if you plan to use the binocular for hours.

Neck Strap and harness – A neck strap usually comes in handily if you are bird watching or out in the national park looking at some wildlife. Get one that is adjustable with padded comfort.

Rain guard – You can prevent the eyecups from flooding by replacing it with one-piece eyecups when it rains. This helps with long-term maintenance of your binoculars

Conclusion

So there you have it. Whether you are a birder, an avid hunter or even a fishing enthusiast, we have sampled some of the best binoculars for your taste.

With a budget under $1000, it would not be a problem finding a premium binocular to serve your needs. Also be sure to check out our buyers guide to know what makes a good binocular tick.

Best Binoculars Under 1000$

Leave a Comment