10×42 Vs 10×50 Binoculars – which one will you choose? This debate basically goes on and on….
Every outdoor lover like bird watchers, campers, hunters becomes a bit confused while choosing the right kind of binocular for their camping trips. In this regard, choosing either 10×42 or 10×50 Binoculars makes this selection procedure even more challenging.
Therefore, I have given deep thought to this argument. And, here, I have come with a comprehensive article where I am going to make a detailed comparison between 10×50 and 10×42 binoculars.
For your information, I always had some attraction to wildlife and outdoor recreation activities. And probably this is the reason I, as of this date, have used varieties of binoculars for the mentioned purposes.
Based on my personal experiences and observations, I have designed this comparison article so that every outdoor lover can get some benefits from the following discussion.
Let’s get it started then….
Before we jump into the comparison details, let me give you a brief idea about the mentioned binocular types –
What Does 10×42 Mean With Binoculars?
Figure 10×42 basically represents the power rating of the binocular, where the 1st number is the magnification, and the 2nd number is the objective lens diameter. For the 10×42 binocular, the number 10 indicates that the magnification power of this binocular is 10. And the number 42 indicates that the objective lens diameter of this binocular is 42mm.
What Does 10×50 Mean With Binoculars?
Figure 10×50 basically represents the power rating of the binocular, where the 1st number is the magnification, and the 2nd number is the objective lens diameter. For the 10×50 binocular, the number 10 indicates that the magnification power of this binocular is 10. And the number 50 indicates that the objective lens diameter of this binocular is 50mm.
10×42 Vs 10×50 Binoculars – The Differences
In this section, I am going to make a comparison discussion between 10×42 binocular and 10×50 binocular based on some important factors.
So, put your utmost attention while reading the following discussion –
Size
The first factor on which I am going to start this comparison discussion is the size.
Well, it is pretty much obvious that for accommodating larger sized objective lenses, a binocular requires larger barrels.
According to this theory, a 10×50 binocular model needs larger-sized barrels because of the size of its objective lens diameter is 50mm.
On the other hand, a 10×42 binocular model requires smaller-sized barrels compared to the earlier one because its objective lens diameter is 42mm.
Larger To Which Extent?
In the case of the 10×50 binocular model, the diameter of the objective lens is 50mm. And, it is 8mm bigger than the 42mm objective lens diameter of the 10×42 binocular model. This size basically represents the ending point of the barrels.
However, if we make a move towards the ocular lens, then it taps down to almost the same size for both of these binocular models.
At the same time, the 10×50 binocular model is slightly longer than the 10×42 binocular model. But, to be honest, this difference is not a noticeable one. And we can ignore this difference as well.
Weight
Almost all of us know the fact that glass is a sort of heavy material. For a good quality binocular, glass is one of the essential elements. Also, larger lenses require more glass materials.
While manufacturing the binoculars, whether it is a 10×50 or 10×42 model, the designers require extra glasses. And they have to determine the glass material depending on the size of the binoculars.
For this reason, the 10×50 binocular model is a bit heavier than the 10×42 binocular model, if one uses the same glass materials for both. And this basically happens because of the binocular sizes.
Optical performance
In the case of binoculars, you have to keep in mind that the larger the surface area, the more light it can pass through.
We have already come to know that the 10×50 binocular model comes with a larger surface area than that of the 10×42 binocular model.
As a result, the 50mm binocular models tend to capture and pass more light than the 42mm models.
And, the amount of light that can pass through the objective lens determines how clear and brighter the images will be.
However, in daylight conditions, both 42mm and 50mm binocular models produce images of equal quality.
But, for dim light conditions (meaning before sunrise, or sunset or thickly wooded areas), the 50mm model will serve you with a brighter image.
Lens Coating
The lens coating on the objective lens plays a significant role in the case of producing a sharper and brighter image. And this helps you in spotting your target. Plus, it gives you a better view.
For a coated lens, you will find great differences using the same binocular from different binocular brands.
Whether it is a 10×42 or 10×50 binocular, it doesn’t matter because image brightness depends on the type of coated lenses used in the mentioned binocular models.
Image Quality
According to ADFG (Alaska Department of Fishing and Game), a pair of 10×50 binoculars will produce brighter images than the 42mm ones.
Benefits
From world-famous authors like Colonel John Henry Patterson and Aldo Leopold, we have come to know the binocular can provide us with numerous numbers of benefits.
In this section, we will discuss the benefits of our selected binocular models –
Benefits of 10×42 Binoculars
The 10×42 binocular is slightly lighter than the 10×50 ones. So, if you are looking for a highly portable binocular, then the 42mm model can be the ideal option for you.
Besides, the price of the 42mm binocular model is also a bit lower than the 52mm model. So, if you have a tight budget, then you can go for the 42mm one.
Benefits 10×50 Binoculars
The 10×50 binocular can give you sharper and brighter images than that of the 10×42 model. And this is because of the objective lens diameter.
Also, the 50mm binocular is the perfect equipment that you can pick if you want to use it in lowlight conditions.
Vortex Diamondback 10×42 vs 10×50 – which one is best and why?
Vortex Diamondback 10×42 Binocular
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| High-quality roof prism. | Minimal level of chromatic aberrations. |
| Multi-coated lens system. | No attached lens caps. |
| Extended field of view. | |
| Affordable price. | |
| Close-in focusing system. | |
| Good quality carrying case. | |
| Good quality rubber armor. | |
| Can be used with a neck strap. | |
| Lifetime warranty [No Questions Asked]. |
Vortex Diamondback 12×50 Binocular
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Extra-wide field of view. | A bit pricy compared to the Vortex 10×42 binocular models. |
| Close Focus @ 7 feet. | The distance or gap between the ocular lenses may create a hindrance to the view for smaller faced people. |
| Ergonomic and sleek design. | |
| Lifetime warranty (VIP). | |
| Compact design. | |
| High-quality rubber armor. | |
| Multi-coated lenses. | |
| Twist-up eyecups for adjustable eye relief. |
Well, we can see that it’s a ‘TIE’ between the 10×42 Vs 10×50 Binoculars.
However, you can still make your final decision without much confusion –
If you are looking for a binocular that is affordable with the most needed features, then I would suggest you go for the Vortex Diamondback 10×42 binocular model.
On the contrary, if you don’t have any budget problems, you can go for the Vortex Diamond 10×50 model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Words
But this time, you have got a PERFECT answer to this long-going debate on – 10×42 Vs 10×50 Binoculars.
I am pretty much CONFIDENT that you have got a clear understanding of this topic after reading the valid and thoughtful comparison I have made above.
Studies regarding Statistics of depth clearly tells that binocular is a piece of vital equipment for spotting and observing any 3D object (meaning hunting animals in the wild). But, choosing the right one can serve you with the BEST hunting experiences.
Since I have a great level of passion for binoculars and similar accessories, so I love to share valuable information throughout my blog. If you need any help or suggestion regarding binoculars, you can ping me at any time.
I will try my best to help you out.
Take Care!
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