Are you looking for quality binoculars without burning a hole in your pockets? Look no further! We understand your needs and took some time to source the best binoculars under $50. Read on to understand the pros and cons of each pair of binoculars before you make a decision to buy one.
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What are the Best Binoculars Under 50?
We could say that we traveled the world to find for you the Best Binoculars Under 50 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 binoculars for less than $50 that you can buy today. We read the comments left by people who bought and used these binoculars under 50 dollars.
We also wrote a brief binoculars under 50 dollars Buying Guide and FAQ sections to address most questions you may have.
Without further ado, here’s the list of top 9 binoculars for less than $50 based on their pricing, specs and ratings by real users.
1. Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.7 Pounds (0.3 kg) Size: 4.3 x 3.9 x 1 Inches (10.9 x 10 x 2.5 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm Magnification: 12x Eye Relief: 20mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
See it in your local store:
The Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision are great for seeing far distances while still promising clarity. What we like about the binocular is how it is lightweight and portable, making it good for travel use. The binocular also does not fog up easily, so you do not have to clean the lenses that often. We also appreciate the good customer service they provide. If you are using the binocular for extended periods, take note that there may be a slight plastic odor. You also need to be careful to not hit against the focus knob accidentally to avoid changing the focus.
Pros
- Customer service is good for customers’ queries,
- Binocular is lightweight,
- Binocular does not fog up easily,
- Binocular is great for looking at far distance
Cons
- There is a slight plastic odor from the binocular,
- Focus knob can be tighter
2. HEALSUN 12 x 42 Binoculars for Travel
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.1 Pounds (0.5 kg) Size: 5.9 x 5.1 x 2.3 Inches (15 x 13 x 5.8 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm Magnification: 12x Waterproof: Water-resistant |
See it in your local store:
The HEALSUN 12×42 is well-suited for traveling for multiple reasons. Firstly, the binocular is extremely lightweight when we consider the magnification it provides. Next, they also provide a phone adapter so you can take pictures of all the places you travel to and share them with friends and family. Furthermore, the lenses are fully multi-coated, so the pictures that you take will turn out brighter. However, there are also certain downsides. Firstly, the binocular exterior is not robust, so you may need to take extra care when handling it. Also, the eyecups may shift if you accidentally tug on them, so you may need to be extra aware of them.
Pros
- Binocular is pretty lightweight,
- Water resistant,
- Lenses are fully multi-coated,
- Phone adapter is provided
Cons
- Binocular exterior is not robust,
- Eyecups shift with little impact
3. LUXUN 10 x 50 Binoculars
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.6 Pounds (0.7 kg) Size: 7.5 x 7 x 2.8 Inches (19.1 x 17.8 x 7.1 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 10x Eye Relief: 13.6mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
See it in your local store:
The LUXUN 10×50 will suit many activities like sightseeing, birding, and more. If you like to use binoculars for long periods, you might be delighted to know that the binocular will feel comfortable in your hands, reducing hand fatigue. If you like to see the scenery after sunset, this binocular also possesses low night vision, so you can appreciate the beauty of nature at different times of the day. We also like how a phone adapter comes with the binocular, allowing you to take pictures through your smartphone. One downside is the lack of eye relief in this pair of binoculars.
Pros
- Binocular is comfortable to hold,
- Binocular possesses low night vision,
- Phone adapter is provided,
- Not difficult to use the focus dial
Cons
- Short eye relief,
- Bulky pair of binoculars,
4. 12×42 HD Binoculars for Adults with Upgraded Phone Adapter, Tripod and Tripod Adapter
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.1 Pounds (0.5 kg) Size: 5.8 x 5 x 2.1 Inches (14.7 x 12.7 x 5.3 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm Magnification: 12x Waterproof: Waterproof |
See it in your local store:
If you are looking for a lightweight binocular with a high magnification power, this might be the one for you. This lightweight binocular will suit activities like concerts or hunting endeavors. The binocular also has a robust exterior so it will be suitable for outdoor activities. The phone attachment that they provide is also a plus. If you are using the binocular where there are frequent temperature changes, it might fog up often. Thus, be prepared for frequent wipes of the lens. Lastly, do take note that the customer service personnel may take some time to get back to you regarding your queries.
Pros
- Binocular is lightweight considering its high magnification,
- Binocular is easy to adjust,
- Binnocular has strong exterior,
- Phone attachment is a good addition
Cons
- Lenses are not fog proof,
- Customer service is poor
5. Aurosports 10×25 Folding Compact Binocular with Weak Light Night Vision
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.6 Pounds (0.2 kg) Size: 3.7 x 3.6 x 2.1 Inches (9.4 x 9.1 x 5.3 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm Magnification: 10x Waterproof: Waterproof |
See it in your local store:
The Aurosports 10×25 Folding Compact Binocular with Weak Light Night Vision is a good option for activities like sporting events and concerts. The binocular is light and easy to carry around, whilst also having a robust exterior. It is also relatively easy to adjust the focusing setting on this binocular. This binocular is also waterproof to some water splashes, so you don’t have to worry about slight rain damaging it. A perk of this binocular is the slight night vision capability it provides so you can see clearer images at night. One thing to take note of is that the binocular is not fog proof, so you may need to wipe it every now and then.
Pros
- Item is light and compact,
- Binocular is easy to focus,
- Binocular has slight night vision capability,
- Binocular has solid exterior
Cons
- Binocular strap is not easy to adjust,
- Binocular is not fog proof
6. Bushnell Falcon 10×50 Wide Angle Binoculars
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.8 Pounds (0.8 kg) Size: 9.3 x 8.2 x 4.2 Inches (23.6 x 20.8 x 10.7 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 10x Eye Relief: 9mm |
See it in your local store:
The Bushnell Falcon 10×50 is suitable for those looking for high magnification at a relatively cheaper price. This binocular is well-suited for activities like hunting and birding due to its wide field of view. It also features a rubber coating to protect the binocular. While trying to adjust the focus of the images, you might be delighted to know that the focus knob is not difficult to manipulate. The ability to focus well for long distances is a plus. Do be reminded that this binocular lacks a tripod attachment, thus it might be a concern for hands-off viewers. Also, the binocular proves difficult to focus in the short distance.
Pros
- Strong rubber coating,
- Easy to manipulate the focus dial for far objects,
- Prompt customer service,
- Binocular provides wide field of view
Cons
- Lack of a tripod attachment,
- Hard to focus in the near distance
7. 20×50 Military Binoculars for Adults with Smartphone Adapter
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.6 Pounds (0.7 kg) Size: 7.9 x 7.9 x 3.1 Inches (20 x 20 x 8 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 20x Waterproof: Waterproof |
See it in your local store:
The 20×50 Military Binoculars for Adults are a good choice for those who want a durable and robust binocular. This binocular will be able to go with you on hunting and hiking trips. The neck strap on the binocular is not too tight, so you will feel comfortable using it. The lens caps are also attached to the binocular, so you do not need to be scared of losing them. Furthermore, there is a tripod attachment if you want to obtain a stabilized image. Do take note, however, that the binocular is not fog proof. Another point is that the smartphone adapter is not easy to use, and you may need to use it multiple times to be comfortable with it.
Pros
- Neck strap is not too tight,
- Lens caps are connected to binocular,
- Binocular has a robust exterior,
- There is a tripod attachment
Cons
- Binocular is not fog proof,
- Smartphone adapter is not user-friendly
8. SkyGenius 10 x 50 Binoculars for Wildlife Watching with Low Light Night Vision
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 1.8 Pounds (0.8 kg) Size: 7.1 x 5.1 x 2 Inches (18 x 13 x 5 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm Magnification: 10x |
See it in your local store:
The SkyGenius 10×50 Binoculars for Wildlife Watching is a good option for those who want a wide field of view for birding or for observing rapid movements like sports events. The grip on the binocular is good and comfortable due to the rubber coating. You can also expect a smooth process when you are adjusting the diopter. What we like about SkyGenius is also the positive customer service rating. Take note that the binocular bag strap may not be long enough for you and may even be uncomfortable for some. The binocular is also slightly on the bulkier side, so it may not be too suitable for some.
Pros
- There is a comfortable grip on binocular,
- Good customer service,
- Binocular is well protected with a rubber coating,
- Easy to adjust diopter
Cons
- The binocular bag strap is not long enough,
- Binocular is not compact
9. Bushnell Compact Roof Prism Binocular
| Specs |
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 0.7 Pounds (0.3 kg) Size: 5 x 4 x 2.8 Inches (12.7 x 10.2 x 7.1 cm) Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm Magnification: 8x Eye Relief: 12mm Waterproof: Waterproof |
See it in your local store:
The Bushnell H20 Waterproof Compact Roof Prism Binocular could be suitable for those who want a pair that can withstand the elements of nature. The binocular is waterproof and fog proof so you can bring it on all your adventures. Having multi-coated lenses, it has greater light-gathering capability. Thus, you will receive brighter images. You will also be glad that the focus dial is easy to manipulate. The rubber coating on the exterior will also protect the binocular from damage. Those wearing glasses can note that the eye relief on this pair of binoculars could be not suitable for them. Also, the eyepieces could be too narrow for some.
Pros
- Lenses are multi-coated,
- Waterproof and fog proof,
- Focus dial is easy to manipulate,
- Rubber coating provides a comfortable grip
Cons
- Eye relief is not long,
- Eyepieces could be too narrow for some
Verdict
TLDR: Quick summary of our findings as to what can be considered the best binoculars under 50 is below:
Overall best pair of $50 binoculars out there: Occer 12×25 Compact Binoculars with Clear Low Light Vision
Premium Pick if money is not much of an issue: HEALSUN 12 x 42 Binoculars for Travel
Budget Choice – there’s no shame in spending prudently: LUXUN 10 x 50 Binoculars
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying Binoculars Under 50 Dollars
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.
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.
Eye Relief
The distance from your eye to the eyepiece’s glass is what is referred to as eye relief. Getting a binoculars with adjustable eye cups are good to provide extended eye relief. If you wear glasses, you will need binoculars with a long eye relief so that your eyes are not too far from it, and in the process are unable to see the full image. If you do not wear glasses, binoculars with long or short eye relief will work just fine as you can adjust the eye cups to your liking.
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.
Housing Styles
A binocular housing unit serves two primary functions: durability and function. The material of the housing unit is primarily aluminum or polycarbonate with variability in the coating styles. Outdoor models are covered in leather or plastic that is coated with waterproof material. The housing unit’s style can also affect the function of the binoculars. An open bridge housing unit has the focus knob closer to the eyepiece. It allows for a full grip while reducing the weight. A closed bridge housing style offers an enclosed focus mechanism and center hinge, which offers more durability while reducing a full hand grip.
Questions and Answers About Binoculars Under 50 Dollars
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 do the 3 numbers on binoculars mean?
The three binocular numbers refer to its magnification power and the size of the objective lens. The number may look like 10-30X25 or 10/30X25. The dash on the numbers means that the binoculars are zoom binoculars, while the slash means that the binocular has two sets of eyepieces. The numbers 10 and 30 indicate that the binoculars can magnify an image 10 to 30 times. 25, on the other hand, refers to the size of the objective lens, in this case, 25 mm.
What is the maximum range of binoculars?
Binoculars have no limit on how far you can see with them; the magnification of your binoculars is what determines how near the object seems to be. As a result, high-powered binoculars will enable you to see crispier and clearer images over longer distances. However, the horizon and atmospheric conditions may limit how far you can view. When it’s rainy, cloudy, foggy, or highly polluted outside, you can’t see as far as you can in clear weather. The horizon limits how far you can see, and its distance may vary depending on where you are positioned.
What is a phone adapter for binoculars?
A phone adapter for binoculars is an adapter that is used to attach your phone to your binoculars. It lets you capture high-resolution photographs of the view you see through your binoculars. It is especially useful when birdwatching, whale watching, or stargazing. The phone adapter for binoculars is compatible with most smartphones, tablets, and cameras.
Can night vision binoculars be used in daylight?
Binoculars with night vision can be used during the day as long as they are not used in areas with a lot of light or brightness. The lenses are sensitive to light but block out and reduce infrared light, allowing night vision binoculars to be used during the day.
