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If you’ve ever been searching for binoculars as someone new to the hobby, you’ve likely seen that they often appear alike. They’re also filled with complicated terms regarding lens coatings and prisms, plus the price points are all over the place from “more affordable than a night out” to “I could purchase a vehicle for that amount.” This is notably present with 10×42 binoculars — the sweet spot in sizing that’s suitable for practically anything, such as watching birds in your backyard or gazing across the night environment.
Why select a 10×42, exactly? Basically, these specs are a dependable, all-around option. They’re a good fit if you wish to observe an array of general subjects without needing to narrow down to one specific area. The 10x zoom brings distant subjects closer to view details without triggering excessive wobbling, and the 42mm front lenses can capture a substantial amount of light without adding a lot of weight. Unsurprisingly, this size is the top seller for numerous brands.
Yet, there’s a key factor: not every 10×42 model is identical. The type of glass, treatments on the lens, and materials employed can shift the experience from a simple “there’s a bird” to an impressive “I can make out every feather!”. Celestron provides six choices across four unique lines in this category — Outland X, Nature DX (with an ED variation), TrailSeeker (also with an ED version) and Regal ED. These run from economical to top-of-the-line, with each increment bringing extra refinements (as well as a bigger impact on your savings).
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Browse the Choices
The entry-level modelOutland X $77.14 at Amazon $84.99 at HSN $89.99 at BHPhoto $155.95 at Best Buy
The favorite of manyNature DX $149 at Amazon $149 at BHPhoto $149.99 at Best Buy $164.89 at BHPhoto
The prime balanceNature DX ED $209.99 at Amazon $209.99 at BHPhoto
The one in the middleTrailSeeker $247.75 at Amazon $359.99 at Newegg $359.99 at BHPhoto $428.95 at Best Buy
The surprisingly impressive modelTrailSeeker ED $359.99 at Newegg $359.99 at BHPhoto Check Amazon
Perfect for dedicated birdwatchersRegal ED $368.99 at HSN $379.49 at Amazon $379.49 at BHPhoto
Technological Progress with Higher SpendingImage 1 of 3
While all of Celestron’s 10×42’s are similar in size and weight, some are more comfortable than others.(Image credit: Kimberley Lane)
Three of the six models boast ED glass.(Image credit: Kimberley Lane)
They’re the ideal size to slip into a bag or a coat pocket, or carry them in the included carry cases.(Image credit: Kimberley Lane)
It is commonly believed that “you obtain what you finance.” This is definitely valid regarding optical instruments. Initially, these models display the same 10×42 specification; however, binoculars are similar to baked goods: it is usually the same flour and sugar, though the outcome varies depending on the quality of the components used.
Coatings
The Outland X is built with standard multi-coated lenses. These are acceptable for daytime work but perform poorly as light fades. Nature DX enhances this with fully multi-coated optics with phase-coated prisms that enhance contrast and minimize glare. TrailSeeker and Regal ED combine phase and dielectric prism coatings with fully coated lenses, offering the clearest, most brilliant view of the bunch.
During sharpness tests, we checked out similar houses to identify where the picture began to blur out toward the borders of the visual field.
Glass
ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass makes sure different light frequencies stay focused together, which lowers any purple or green colorization around bright outlines. There is no ED choice in the Outland X range, whereas the Nature DX and TrailSeeker come as both standard and ED types. The Regal is offered in just an ED version. In addition, its flat-field design sustains sharpness from the center to the periphery.
Build quality and materials
The Outland X and Nature DX models incorporate polycarbonate bodies protected by rubber armor — lasting enough, though they might feel a bit low-end. The TrailSeeker and Regal series advance to a magnesium body and rubber coating, that feels harder yet lighter for sustained applications. However, each of the six versions are waterproof and injected with nitrogen to fight internal condensation.
Outcomes6th place: Celestron Outland X