are a good pair for looking at the full moon up close but will also be beneficial at catching stellar wonders like the Pleaides or the bright stars Vega and Arcturus.
Just like with all optics, there is a huge variety to choose from with different magnifications and features. Our guide recommends the best binoculars in each category, tested by expert reviewers who are seasoned stargazers. We have selected binoculars to suit a range of budgets and requirements to determine the models with the best image, ease of use and durability.
The quick list
Canon 10x42L IS WP binoculars
Best binoculars overall
The finest stargazing binoculars money can buy with in-built stabilization. As close to perfection as you’ll get for handheld astronomy.
Nikon Monarch HG 10x42
Best optical performance
Some of the best optics on the market in an easily transportable roof prism design. A premium product at a premium price.
Celestron Nature DX 12x56
Best for affordable stargazing
They offer bright and clear views, with a wide aperture for gathering light and magnification that is excellent for stargazing and wildlife spotting.
Celestron TrailSeeker 8x42 binocular
Best binoculars under $300
The TrailSeeker 8x42’s minimalist design makes them a hugely more attractive option than large and heavy deep-sky astronomy-centric binoculars.
Celestron UpClose G2 10x50 Binocular
Best budget binoculars
Best thought of as a great value pair of entry-level binoculars for all-round use and for occasional night sky views.
Celestron SkyMaster Pro 15x70 Binocular
Best for moon views
These binoculars give a superb stargazing experience at a reasonable price. Fantastic magnification for lunar viewing.
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Vortex 10x50 Crossfire HD Binocular
Best mid-range model
The pair you need if a wide field of view and a good sturdy build quality top your brief.
Celestron Cometron 7x50
Best family binoculars
Surprisingly good optics make these attractive to adults and kids alike. Considering what and who they're for, for the price, they're hard to beat.
Celestron SkyMaster 25x100 Binocular
Best for magnification
See the universe close up and in stereo, but don’t plan to hike with them as they're big and heavy.
Nikon 10x50 Aculon A211 Binocular
Best for entry-level astronomy
Ideal for anyone just starting out in stargazing. A sleek and well made binocular model with optics to boot.
Nikon PROSTAFF P3 8x42
Best for beginners
Slender and lightweight, these are ideal for beginners and hobbyists who need a 'go-anywhere' binocular.
Nikon Action EX 12x50
Best for reliability
With high magnification and excellent light-gathering abilities, these binoculars are built to last.
Celestron Nature DX ED 12x50
Best for daytime use
These combine the best of both worlds. They're excellent for daytime use but could equally be used for night-time stargazing.
Best binoculars we recommend in 2025
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Best overall
Image 1 of 4
The Canon 10x42L IS WP binoculars have 42mm objective lenses that are ideal for astronomy. (Image credit: Jamie Carter)
A button on the right-hand barrel of the Canon 10x42L IS WP binoculars initiates the image stabilisation feature. (Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
The Canon 10x42L IS WP binoculars offer an impressive 16mm of eye relief that makes them easy to use if you wear glasses. (Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
There is a built in tripod thread for long viewing sessions (to save your arms from getting tired).(Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
Best binoculars overall: The finest stargazing binoculars money can buy with in-built stabilization
☆☆☆☆☆
Specifications
Magnification: 10x
Objective lens diameter: 42mm
Field of view: 6.5-degrees
Eye relief: 14.5mm (0.57-inch)
Weight: 39.2 oz / 1.1kg
Reasons to buy
+
Optical Image Stabilizer
+
Rugged build quality
+
Lots of eye relief
Reasons to avoid
-
Bulky size
-
Lens caps are loose
-
AAA batteries required
Buy it if
✅ You want the best of the best: Other than price and size, we really couldn't find major fault with these binoculars — we gave them 5 stars in our review.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You're a casual user: These are an expensive pair of powerful binos, so if you're a casual sky-watcher or wildlife spotting, they'll be overkill.
❌ You want a lightweight binocular: These are undeniably heavy and bulky, so if weight is important to you, we'd suggest looking elsewhere.
The bottom line
🔎 Canon 10x42L IS WP binoculars: They're not perfect, but they’re as close as you’ll get for hand-held astronomy. They're an outstanding choice for super-steady stargazing thanks to their image stabilization, waterproof design and large objective lenses. ★★★★★
, we were really impressed with the incredibly sharp image which featured no chromatic aberration, which is just what you need for observing .
The main downside to the Canon 10x42L IS WP binoculars is that they are, unfortunately, rather power hungry — but that's the same with any binos with high-tech features. Here, it's the IS system that requires so much power: We got through several AAA batteries in just one sky-watching session, so you'll need to bear that in mind if you're considering purchasing these and make sure you're well stocked-up on batteries every time you venture out. It's extra weight and bulk to carry around with you, and something else to think about when you're packing up your gear. We'd say that overall the Image Stabilization is worth it, though.
We also weren't wholly satisfied with the accessories provided with these binoculars, especially considering the price point. We struggled to get the one-piece lens caps to stay in place, and the carry case was a bit basic and flimsy, so you might want to upgrade it. But overall, these are still the best stargazing binoculars on our list thanks to the astronomy-centric glass and clever image stabilization feature.
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Attributes
Notes
Design
Rugged build quality, but bulky.
Performance
Produce bright and colorful images.
Functionality
Optical image stabilization.
☆☆☆☆☆
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Best optical performance
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The Nikon Monarch HG 10x42 give the best optical performance.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
The only way to improve these binos would be inclusion of image stabilization.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
The eyecups twist with solid, confident clunks.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
The Nikon Monarch HG 10x42 are lightweight and slim making them easy to transport(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
The objective lens caps fit snugly onto the ends and hang in place (when taken off for viewing) .(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
Best optical performance: Some of the best optics on the market in an easily transportable roof prism design
☆☆☆☆☆
Specifications
Magnification: 10x
Objective lens diameter: 42mm
Field of view: 6.9-degrees
Eye relief: 17mm (0.67-inch)
Weight: 1.5 oz (680g)
Reasons to buy
+
Highly portable
+
Sharp views across the whole field of view
Reasons to avoid
-
No image stabilization
-
Negligible color fringing
Buy it if
✅ You want some of the best on the market: If you're prepared to pay for them, these binoculars have a premium finish and deliver stunning optical performance. They'll last you for years to come.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You specifically want image stabilization: This may be the only thing missing from this pair of binos, so if that's important to you, there previous option in this guide might be better for you.
The bottom line
🔎 Nikon Monarch HG 10x42: A premium package with a premium price, these binoculars are not ideal for beginner users unless you have deep pockets or a real passion for wildlife- or sky-watching that you plan on pursuing for years to come. ★★★★½2;
Optics don't get much better than those on the Nikon Monarch HG 10x42 binoculars. But it's no surprise, when these binos come from Nikon, a brand synonymous with cameras and high-quality optical equipment. The Monarch HGs use a Field Flattener Lens System, which ensures that images are sharp all the way across the field of view and not just at one specific point. Coupled with their Extra-low Dispersion glass, which practically eliminates chromatic aberration, these binoculars are very hard to beat indeed.
During our we tested these binoculars in a range of challenging conditions and were pleased with the results every single time. Light transmission is good because the 42mm objective lenses are large enough to allow light to pass through even in twilight hours. Every single glass element also contains multilayer coatings to help improve the transmission of light, which Nikon reported as being 92% or higher..
Whilst they're undeniably pricey binoculars, we feel you're getting real quality for your money with this pair. Everything about them feels premium. The magnesium alloy body is slim and lightweight enough to slip into a coat pocket, but they feel balanced in the hand and come coated in a grippy rubberized armor. They're also entirely waterproof, so you don't need to worry about getting caught out in bad weather, and they're nitrogen-filled to prevent fogging as well.
Even the accessories feel high-quality. These binoculars come with a cushioned neck strap, objective lens caps and a premium carry case that has a secure safety catch to prevent them from falling out during transit (no relying on velcro here). We also enjoyed other unexpected details like the locking mechanism on the diopter adjustment ring which means it can't get accidentally knocked out of place. The only thing they lack is image stabilization technology.
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Attributes
Notes
Design
Premium finish all over.
Performance
Razor sharp views from edge to edge.
Functionality
Only way to improve would be inclusion of image stabilization.
☆☆☆☆☆
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Best for affordable stargazing
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The Celestron Nature DX 12x56 are a good quality, inexpensive pair of binoculars that we wouldn't hesitate to recommend.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
The eyepiece lens caps have a hoop on either side to loop them onto the neck strap or the binoculars to avoid losing them.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
The 12-inch objective lens with BaK-4 prisms allows lots of light to pass through.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
The author resetting object lens caps before stowing the binoculars away in the carry pouch.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
The twist up eyecups provide comfort to suit all shapes and sizes.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
Best for affordable stargazing: A wide aperture and 12x magnification make these excellent for observing the cosmos
☆☆☆☆☆
Specifications
Magnification: 12x
Objective lens diameter: 56mm
Field of view: 5.5 degrees
Eye relief: 16mm (0.63-inch)
Weight: 36.2 oz / 1028g
Reasons to buy
+
Excellent build quality
+
Close focusing
Reasons to avoid
-
A little heavy for prolonged use
-
Image could be a touch sharper
Buy it if
✅ You want to take them anywhere in any weather: They were created with the outdoor enthusiast in mind, and they're waterproof and fogproof so you can use them anywhere.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want to use them for prolonged periods: They may become quite heavy if you plan on using them for long periods.
The bottom line
🔎 Celestron Nature DX 12x56: They offer bright and clear views, with a wide aperture for gathering light and excellent magnification for stargazing and wildlife spotting. ★★★★½2;
The Celestron Nature DX 12x56 binoculars are a great deal for under $250, perfect for casual wildlife spotting, bird watching or stargazing. The build quality is fantastic: They have a full rubber housing and they're completely waterproof, fogproof and nitrogen-purged. The Nature DX 12x56 binoculars include a tripod mount that could be useful for longer viewing sessions and a rain guard that protects the lenses from getting watermarked.
The focus knobs turn smoothly and easily. During our , we appreciated that the binoculars can focus on objects less than 10 feet away, making them great for spotting wildlife in your backyard. If you wear glasses, you'll appreciate the 16mm eye relief provided by the twist-up eyecups.
Despite coming in at under $250, we think the optics on the Celestron Nature DX 12x56 binoculars are comparable to some more expensive models. That's because they have multi-coated optics and BaK-4 prisms, which are generally regarded as being the best. The Nature DX are only let down by their lack of sharpness, which may be disappointing for more advanced or professional users, but if you're a casual user we think these binos are amongst the best you can buy.
If you want a high-quality pair of binoculars for bird watching or wildlife watching and can forgo some level of sharpness that more expensive models can provide, these are attractive. They are also suitable for sky watching and, thanks to the rubber armoring, are hardy enough to be taken anywhere without worrying about the elements.
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Attributes
Notes
Design
Fogproof and waterproof.
Performance
Bright images even when observing in low light.
Functionality
A little heavy for prolonged use.
☆☆☆☆☆
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Best binoculars under $300
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Celestron strike a great balance between affordability, portability and optical performance with the TrailSeeker 8x42 binoculars.(Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
The Celestron TrailSeeker 8x42 offers a generous 17mm of eye-relief with eye-cups that have four separate positions. (Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
The lens caps on the objectives of the Celestron Trailseeker 8x42 binoculars are loosely attached and can be easy to lose.(Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
A harness strap fits across the wearer’s back and transfers the weight of the binoculars from neck to shoulders. (Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
These binos were lightweight enough to travel with them, but they're not the best for prolonged periods of handheld use.(Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
Best binoculars under $300: Fogproof and waterproof for use in all weathers
Reasons to buy
+
No fogging
+
Bright images
+
Wide field of view
Reasons to avoid
-
Carry case can’t house harness strap
-
Lack magnification for serious astro
Buy it if
✅ You want to travel with them: We found these binos were lightweight enough to travel with them easily, although perhaps not the best for prolonged periods of handheld use.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You're serious about astro: These binos lack the magnification needed for dedicated astro use, particularly for observing deep sky objects.
The bottom line
🔎 Celestron TrailSeeker 8x42 binoculars: Traveling stargazers will love them as they work well after dark and strike a balance between quality, affordability and portability. The TrailSeeker 8x42’s minimalist design makes them a more attractive option than large and heavy deep-sky astronomy-centric binoculars ★★★★½2;
We think the Celestron TrailSeeker 8x42 binoculars make a great pair for amateur astronomy, whilst also having the flexibility to be used for a range of other pursuits. Their price point sits just above the more affordable mass-market binoculars, and this means that you get high-quality BaK-4 glass and multi-coated optics, as well as waterproofing and nitrogen purging to make these binoculars safe to use in any weather conditions.
In our we were very pleased with the build quality on these binoculars. They're constructed from a lightweight magnesium frame with rubber coating for grip and protection. They also come with a useful range of accessories, including a thick and comfortable neck strap, a padded carry case and an innovative harness strap that spreads the weight of the binoculars over your shoulders for longer viewing sessions..
If you're looking for good binoculars for stargazing, the Celestron TrailSeeker binoculars — despite coming from Celestron — might not be the best choice on the market thanks to their 8x magnification and 42mm lens diameter. Ultimately, they're at the lowest useful end, so while they're not completely useless, you won't be able to enjoy any views of deep space. We have found them capable of offering adequate views of and the Milky Way, however, thanks to their wide viewing angle..
It's also worth noting that the TrailSeeker 8x42 binoculars don't have Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass, so we experienced a fair bit of color fringing, particularly when viewing bright objects such as . It's not a surprise at this price point, however — and Celestron do have a model with ED glass, but as you'd expect it's notably more expensive.
Their specifications make them an entry-level choice in some ways; you wouldn’t want to go any lower than their 8x magnification and 42mm objective lens size. Although the TrailSeeker 8x42 are good all-rounders, 10x50 binoculars remain the sweet spot for stargazing.
Glasses-wearers will also find this pair easy to use thanks to their generous 17mm eye relief, which can be set in three different positions depending on your preference.
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Attributes
Notes
Design
Fogproof and waterproof.
Performance
Good quality optics, slight color fringing.
Functionality
Wide field of view.
Best budget binoculars
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Surprisingly slim and lightweight for Porro prism binoculars the UpClose G2 10x50 are a good budget-friendly model..(Image credit: Jamie Carter)
The eyecups on the Celestron UpClose G2 10x50 binoculars are narrow and offer minimal eye relief. (Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
The Celestron UpClose G2 10x50 binoculars have large 50mm objective lenses that make them ideal in low light and darkness.(Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
The Celestron UpClose G2 10x50 binoculars are wide yet easy to hold, with thumb indents on the undercarriage. (Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
The Celestron UpClose G2 10x50 binoculars use Porro prisms and boast 10x magnification for a wide field of view..(Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
Best budget binoculars: Space and weight saving binoculars to take on your travels
Reasons to buy
+
Compact and lightweight
+
Waterproof and fog-resistant
+
Shock resistant
Reasons to avoid
-
Lenses need collimating
-
Greater magnification needed for astro
Buy it if
✅ You're a beginner: If you've used binoculars before, then these are unlikely to impress you, but they're perfectly suited to beginners.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You specialize in astro: While they do give decent views of the night sky, anyone focusing solely on astronomy would likely want to go for a more powerful pair.
The bottom line
🔎 Celestron UpClose G2 10x50 Binocular: A great value pair of binoculars, well suited for entry-level and all-round use. They're also great for occasional night sky use and are easy to set up, use and adjust. If you're an astronomer on a budget, these are a decent choice, although we do question their longevity. ★★★★½2;
These are affordable skywatching binoculars that would be ideal for anyone just starting out who wants to get the most for their money.
In our , we found the moon looks amazing through these binoculars, easily fitting into the view with just a hint of false color. In July 2020, the UpClose G2 10x50 binoculars were very effective in spotting the naked-eye comet C/2020 F3 (NEOWISE). We managed to spot three stars within the Trapezium Cluster near the center of the Orion Nebula (Messier 42), but you'd need a pair with higher magnification if you want to see the fourth bright star in this star-forming area.
If you're on a budget, then, the UpClose G2 10x50 binoculars are a fantastic choice, particularly if you're just starting out on a stargazing hobby. They're light enough to carry around and if you're out trekking, they're ideal to throw in a backpack without adding too much extra bulk.
They're not all perfect, though; of course some corners have been cut considering the price. We've discussed the pitfalls in more detail in our review, but you'll need to adjust the alignment of the lenses (collimation) for one.
They aren't waterproof, either, and they haven't been nitrogen-purged, so we wouldn't recommend using them in inclement weather. While the rubber armor and aluminum housing is labeled as water-resistant, we certainly wouldn't like to push our luck with them. They're liable to fog up in the cold — although they were fine during a two-hour session in near-freezing conditions.
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Attributes
Notes
Design
Basic build design and quality.
Performance
Surprisingly little chromatic aberration.
Functionality
Needs greater magnification for astro.
Best for moon views
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The SkyMaster Pro 15x70 binoculars have a very specific purpose: To maximize the light of distant objects and magnify them into view.(Image credit: Celestron)
These binoculars are best suited to view large objects and wide-field views,(Image credit: Celestron)
The Celestron SkyMaster Pro 15x70 Binoculars have a strong magnification, great to view the momon for example.(Image credit: Celestron)
Despite being on the larger and heavier side, the Celestron SkyMaster Pro 15x70 Binoculars offer excellent quality at a reasonable price.(Image credit: Celestron)
These binoculars are on the heavier side and require a tripod.(Image credit: Celestron)
Best for moon views: These binoculars have superb magnification and detail, but they're heavy
☆☆☆☆☆
Specifications
Magnification: 15x
Objective lens diameter: 70mm
Angular field of view: 4.4 degrees
Eye relief: 18mm (0.71-inch)
Weight: 3 lbs / 1.36kg
Reasons to buy
+
Great price for giant binoculars
+
Excellent eye relief
+
Optics offer good detail
Reasons to avoid
-
Heavy, requires tripod
-
Some softness around edges
Buy it if
✅ You want good quality without breaking the bank: Given the high magnification, sturdy build and large objectives, we think these offer a lot for the price.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want to view planets or small distant galaxies: They don't excel in this area, they're more suited to providing dramatic wide-field views or larger objects.
The bottom line
🔎 Celestron SkyMaster Pro 15x70 Binoculars: These offer a top stargazing experience for a reasonable price. They won’t give you close-ups of planets or reveal the most distant galaxies, but they make up for it by providing dramatic wide-field views in a good, dark sky. ★★★★½2;
Celestron is a well-respected brand with a strong reputation and the SkyMaster binoculars, including the 15x70 'giant' model, deliver excellent views at an affordable price. Despite being a bit on the heavy side, these binoculars are durable and we think they offer impressive quality for their cost.
The SkyMaster 15x70 binoculars' number one advantage is how much light they can gather. The 70mm objective lenses pull in a huge amount of light and, coupled with the 15x magnification, they're perfect for gazing at the stars with. Objects in the are much clearer than they are with less powerful binoculars, although it's worth noting that there's some blurring around the edges of the lens — a common trait of cheaper models..
They're a great choice if you wear glasses too, since the Celestron SkyMaster 15x70 binoculars have an impressive 0.7 inches (18mm) of eye relief, so you should be able to use them comfortably.
Optically the star images were excellent at the center of the field of view, but the distortion was evident towards the edges, with the stars appearing as streaks. This is not very disturbing, as one’s vision is only sharp at the center anyway, but it means that you would have to move the binoculars to explore a large starfield. To get edge-to-edge sharpness in binoculars of this size you will have to pay a great deal more.
At 11 inches (280mm) in length and weighing 3 lbs (1.36kg), we found in our that they certainly have a lot of heft. Using them handheld isn't impossible, but for maximum comfort, it's best to use a tripod with these binoculars. Their powerful magnification makes views of the moon truly stunning, and we were especially impressed by how the lunar surface looked three-dimensional..
Despite the larger 70mm objective aperture, the higher magnification of 15x reduces the apparent field of view to 4.4 degrees, compared to typical 10x50s or 12x50s that provide a degree more.
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Attributes
Notes
Design
Robust construction.
Performance
Optics give good detail.
Functionality
Excellent for viewing larger deep-sky objects.
☆☆☆☆☆
Best mid range model
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The Vortex 10x50 Crossfire HD binoculars showing the lens caps.(Image credit: Jamie Carter)
The Vortex 10x50 Crossfire HD has 6.1 degree field of view.(Image credit: Jamie Carter)
The eyecups on the Vortex 10x50mm Crossfire HD offer 17mm eye relief.(Image credit: Jamie Carter)
Best mid-range model: The pair you need if a wide field of view and a good sturdy build quality top your brief
Reasons to buy
+
Sturdy, well-constructed build
+
Multipurpose optics
+
Manageable weight
Reasons to avoid
-
A little false color in views
-
Slight blurring at the edge of FOV
Buy it if
✅ You want to travel with them: These binoculars' lightweight design makes them extremely manageable to travel with.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You're on a tight budget: While they're not the most expensive option on this list, anyone on a tight budget could certainly find a more affordable pair.
The bottom line
🔎 Vortex 10x50 Crossfire HD Binocular: If you want to move up to the next level with your binocular stargazing, then the roof prisms on these binoculars bring super-sharp views and come with a useful harness and an excellent padded case. ★★★★
The Vortex 10x50 Crossfire HD binoculars have a lot going for them. We think they're reliable and sturdy, and useful whether you're watching wildlife or doing the occasional bit of astronomy. Their design is outstanding, particularly thanks to the focusing knob that's easy to adjust even if you're wearing very thick gloves.
The eyecups, too, are a standout feature, thanks to being customizable and twistable. The eye relief goes to 17mm, which we think is very generous and useful if you wear glasses. The Crossfire HD binoculars are lightweight, too: they weigh only 1.89lbs (0.86kg) so you'll barely notice them in a backpack or in your luggage while you're traveling.
The Vortex 10x50 Crossfire HD are roof prism binoculars, which means a relatively compact and space-saving design of two tubes joined by a small hinge in the center that houses the optics and the focusing knob. The lens caps on the 50mm objective lenses are tethered to the hinge.
The Vortex Crossfire HD 10x50 binoculars provide a sharp and clear view, particularly if you're into astronomy; they make stars look like perfect pinpoints of light. You might notice some color distortion when looking at brighter objects, but this is common for binoculars in this price range. However, they offer a great balance of brightness and sharpness across the entire field of view. During our , we only observed a tiny drop-off towards the very edges of the field of view.
There are a few downsides to them, of course. Although these binoculars come with a harness, we realized during our testing that the padded case forms part of the harness so you can't use one without the other, which is a little frustrating.
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Attributes
Notes
Design
Sturdy, well constructed build.
Performance
Bright and sharp images.
Functionality
Excellent padded case and harness.
Show more
Best family binoculars
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The Cometron 7x50's compact size and light weight (27oz) means you use them all day long.(Image credit: Jeremy Lips & Dave Brody)ody)
The generous 7mm width of the binocular's image disk more than compensates for the minor cut-off of the best image area.(Image credit: Jeremy Lips & Dave Brody)ody)
These binos offer good optics at a great price(Image credit: Future)
The Cometron 7x50 are sturdy enough to withstand inevitable knocks.(Image credit: Jeremy Lips & Dave Brody)ody)
Roll-down rubber eyepiece guards let eyeglass wearers find their best focus point within the relatively short 13mm of eye relief.(Image credit: Jeremy Lips & Dave Brody)ody)
Best family binoculars: Surprisingly good optics make these alluring to adults and kids alike
☆☆☆☆☆
Specifications
Magnification: 7x
Objective lens diameter: 50mm
Field of view: 6.8 degrees
Eye relief: 13mm (0.5-inch)
Weight: 1.68 lbs / 773g
Reasons to buy
+
Great value, low risk purchase
+
Wide exit pupil
+
BK7 glass
Reasons to avoid
-
Not waterproof
-
Not drop-proof
Buy it if
✅ You're buying for your kids: These make a great inexpensive, 'don't care if they get trashed' pair of binoculars that are great for kids who aren't particularly careful.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want good quality: They're decent for what they are, but if you want good quality optics we'd recommend spending a bit more on a better pair.
The bottom line
🔎 Celestron Cometron 7x50: Their small size and light weight (1 lb 11 oz) let you use them all day, yet you can still hand-hold them comfortably after sunset and long into your dark night of sky-watching. Considering what and who they're for, for the price, they're hard to beat. ★★★★
It is a known fact that children have better night vision than adults, meaning they do not require high-end binoculars to see the same amount of light that an adult would with a more powerful pair. As such, the 7x magnification and 50mm objective lenses make the a great choice for kids (they're featured in our )..
Having reviewed the specs on paper, we weren't too excited about reviewing this pair of binoculars, but to our pleasant surprise, we ended up loving them in our . We think they offer a budget-friendly entry into the realm of sky-watching, and if they don't suit you, the gamble will only set you back $40.
The Celestron Cometron 7x50 are lightweight and easy to carry around, even in the small hands of a child. They are, however, not so lightweight that they will break easy: they're hard-wearing enough that they can withstand the odd bash or knock. It's worth noting, though, that they aren't waterproof, so we wouldn't recommend using them in bad weather (and they certainly wouldn't survive being dropped in a puddle).
Keep in mind that kids might find it more challenging to keep binoculars steady for a long time, so it's a good idea to pick a pair that are lightweight and comfortable for them. This makes it easier for kids to use them and helps prevent them from getting tired quickly. Alternatively, consider .
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Attributes
Notes
Design
Water-resistant, not waterproof.
Performance
Useful for other subjects in the daytime.
Functionality
Ideal for use by adults and kids alike.
☆☆☆☆☆
Best for magnification
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Like two telescopes strapped together, the SkyMaster 25x100 binoculars require a tripod for reliable use but make short work of distant stars, nebulas and deep-sky objects.(Image credit: Jeremy Lips & Dave Brody)ody)
The SkyMaster 25x100 binoculars are big, large and heavy and should ideally be used with a tripod and counterweight .(Image credit: Jeremy Lips & Dave Brody)ody)
Each eyepiece can be independently adjusted, rather than adjusted like a diopter akin to less expensive models.(Image credit: Jeremy Lips & Dave Brody)ody)
The Celestron SkyMaster 25x100s can only be used on a tripod or counterweighted arm. Here, the author scans for the moon in daylight.(Image credit: Jeremy Lips & Dave Brody)ody)
Best for magnification: See the Universe close up and in stereo, but don’t plan to hike with them
Reasons to buy
+
High magnification
+
Tripod adapter included
+
Great clarity and contrast
Reasons to avoid
-
Very heavy, tripod needed
-
Quite expensive
Buy it if
✅ You want more detailed views: The high magnification means you can pick out some incredible details in the vast night sky.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want to use them handheld: They're big and heavy, so using them handheld would end in arm-ache and you'd have a hard job holding them steady.
The bottom line
🔎 Celestron SkyMaster 25x100 Binocular: These heavy-hitters are certainly not for uninitiated. We think these are more akin to two 100mm refractor telescopes stuck together as they have an enormous reach. They're our favorite large astronomy binoculars, and with proper care, they could give you decades of joyful stereoscopic star-hopping. ★★★★
The Celestron SkyMaster 25x100 are our top pick for large astronomy binoculars. They act like two 100mm (4-inch) refractor telescopes set up side-by-side, with built-in image-erecting prisms and eyepieces that rotate independently through 450 degrees rather than the combined central focus knob that you get on traditional binoculars. They also have a 15mm eye relief, which is just enough to comfortably use them with glasses.
During our , we were impressed with the breathtaking images of the night sky they provided. We were able to pick out clusters of galaxies like the Leo Triplets, Jupiter's atmospheric belts and the Sagittarius star cloud (also known as Messier 24). The multi-coated optics produce bright, clear views through the unusually large objective lens diameters.
It goes without saying that the Celestron SkyMaster 25x100 binoculars are very heavy and large. You won't be able to use them handheld, so they will need to be mounted to a tripod using the built-in tripod adapter. They're rather heavy, too, weighing in at 8.75lbs (3.97kg) which doesn't make them all that suitable for carrying around (particularly considering you'll also need to carry a tripod).
But the size is, of course, for a reason, because without binoculars this large you can't get such breathtaking views of the night sky. The only real let-downs are the disappointing lens covers and the thin carry case, but aside from those, we think these binoculars are amongst the best for astronomy.
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Attributes
Notes
Design
Requires tripod to use.
Performance
Perfect for finding clusters of galaxies.
Functionality
450 degree independent eyepiece rotation.
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Best for entry level astronomy
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The 50mm objective lenses let in plenty of light at night which makes them useful for stargazing..(Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
A tough rubber armor around the binoculars keeps everything waterproof and knock-proof.(Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
Seen on the underside of the binoculars, there are indents for thumbs.(Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
The eyecups on the Nikon Aculon 10x50 A211 binoculars offer only 0.46-inch/11.8mm eye relief. (Image credit: Future/Jamie Carter)
Best for entry-level astronomy: A sleek and well made binocular model with optics to boot
☆☆☆☆☆
Specifications
Magnification: 10x
Objective lens diameter: 50mm
Field of view: 6.5 degrees
Eye Relief: 11.8mm (0.47-inch)
Weight: 2 lbs / 899g
Reasons to buy
+
Great optics
+
Wide field of view
+
Sleek design
Reasons to avoid
-
Eye relief isn't brilliant
-
Not water resistant
Buy it if
✅ You're looking for your 'first pair' of binoculars: We think they're a great option for anyone starting out in their astronomy journey.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You wear glasses: The eye relief is only 0.46-inch/11.8mm, so they aren't great if you wear glasses.
❌ You need them for travel: We found them a little bulky, so they might not be the best pair to travel with.
The bottom line
🔎 Nikon 10x50 Aculon A211 Binoculars: Ideal for anyone just starting out in stargazing. They're a bit bulky for travel and they don't offer much eye relief, but they're bright and sharp enough for impressive entry-level astronomy. ★★★★
The Nikon 10x50 Aculon A211 are our top pick for entry-level astronomy. Their 10x magnification and 50mm objective lenses are ideal for stargazing, though they could also be used for observing birds or other wildlife when you're out and about.
For the price, we think the optics on these are fantastic. They utilize a porro prism design, which makes them a bit bulkier than some other options, but really maximizes the brightness of the image for stargazing. They also incorporate high-density BaK-4 glass, which is much better than the BK-7 glass that you'll more commonly find at this price point. This makes them a great-value choice for those looking to get started with astronomy.
We really enjoyed scanning the skies with these during our Stars appeared extremely sharp in the center of the field of view, with just some blurring towards the outer edges and a little chromatic aberration when viewing the moon. This is to be expected at this price point, but we don't think it would hinder the enjoyment of first-time stargazers..
If you're considering buying the Nikon 10x50 Aculon A211 binoculars, there are a couple things worth keeping in mind. First, their close focus distance is a minimum of 23 feet (7 meters), which means if you want to observe wildlife at close range, perhaps in your own backyard, they're perhaps not the best choice. They also have a fairly small eye relief at 11.8mm, which isn't great if you wear glasses.
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Attributes
Notes
Design
BaK-4 glass optics.
Performance
Bright and sharp images, some chromatic aberration.
Functionality
They lack eye relief.
☆☆☆☆☆
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Best for beginners
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Nikon PROSTAFF P3 8x42 are fantastic for beginners.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
Suitable for beginners and those on a budget, Nikon has put the money where it counts: In the excellent optics.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
The adjustable eyecups on the Prostaff P3 binoculars are smooth and feel premium.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
The lens caps and accessories and Nikon Prostaff P3 8x42 binocular laid out in full view.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
The 42mm objective lenses are clear and sharp.(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)
Best for beginners: These lightweight binoculars are easy to hold for long periods, best for terrestrial viewing
Reasons to buy
+
Lightweight for longer use
+
Adjustable eyecups
+
Nitrogen filled for anti-fog
Reasons to avoid
-
Doesn't have a tripod adapter
-
Not the best choice for skywatchers.
Buy it if
✅ You want quality on a budget: Nikon hasn't cut any corners here, and the optics are excellent for the low price point.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You primarily use them for stargazing: While we did find they performed well for stargazing, they're not astro-specialists, so if that's your niche there are better options out there.
The bottom line
🔎 Nikon PROSTAFF P3 8x42: Slender and lightweight, these are ideal for beginners and hobbyists who need a 'go-anywhere' binocular, or for those who want a lighter binocular around their neck. ★★★★
If you're looking for a fantastic pair of entry level binoculars, look no further than the Nikon Prostaff P3 8x42. We think they are of a much higher quality than their modest price tag would imply, and they're a great buy for any beginner or casual user.
The Prostaff P3 8x42 are fairly new to the market and they really stand out from the crowd due to their excellent optics — they really are a cut above the competition. Another stand-out feature is their impressive eye relief: at 20.2mm it's one of the largest on this list, making them perfect for anyone who wears glasses (or needs adjustable eyecups for comfort).
These binoculars are designed to be lightweight and durable. Made from strong fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate resin, they have a non-slip rubber coating for a comfortable grip during long use. The shockproof design makes them resistant to damage from any accidental drops or bumps, and they are also waterproof and fog-proof, which is impressive for their affordable price.
During our , we found adjusting the focus on very easy, and we love that they offer just the right amount of resistance, even when you're wearing thick gloves. Although they don't include a tripod adaptor, their 8x magnification and lightweight design (only 572g) make them manageable without one.
The Nikon Prostaff P3 8x42 are great for casual nature watching or travel, without stressing about exceeding your luggage weight limit. However, if you plan on long nights of extended stargazing, they might not be the most suitable choice.
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Attributes
Notes
Design
Waterproof and fogproof.
Performance
Sharp and bright views.
Functionality
Solid polycarbonate fiberglass-reinforced body.
Best for reliability
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The package contains a padded bag, two pop-off objective lens caps and a rainguard. (Image credit: Jamie Carter)
You'll get plenty of starlight through the 50mm objective lenses.(Image credit: Jamie Carter)
The Nikon Action EX 12x50's eyecups offer eye relief of 0.63-inch/16.1mm. (Image credit: Jamie Carter)
The porro prism optics do mean a relatively wide design.(Image credit: Jamie Carter)
Best for reliability: A reliable pair that let in a lot of light, but we advise mounting them to a tripod
☆☆☆☆☆
Specifications
Magnification: 12x
Objective lens diameter: 50mm
Field of view: 5.5 degrees
Eye relief: 16.1mm (0.63-inch)
Weight: 2.18 lbs / 1kg
Reasons to buy
+
Wide field of view
+
Clear, crisp observations
Reasons to avoid
-
Heavy, tripod required
-
Slight field curvature
Buy it if
✅ You want a long-term pair: If you're looking for a reliable pair of binoculars with high magnification that will last you for years to come, these are a great choice.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want something lightweight: They're quite heavy and require a tripod in order to hold them steady, so they're not ideal for prolonged handheld use.
The bottom line
🔎 Nikon Action EX 12x50 Binoculars: A step-up from mass market models with a little extra magnification, excellent light-gathering and rugged construction including waterproofing, comfy rubber grips and a large focus knob. ★★★★
The Nikon Action EX 12x50 binoculars are a fantastic option compared to more mainstream 10x50 binoculars as they provide a higher 12x magnification while maintaining the same 50mm aperture. The build is excellent, featuring comfortable rubber grips and a large focus knob, although the 13mm eye relief will be a little short for anyone who wears glasses.
You'll generally find that when using higher magnification binoculars, you'll get slightly duller images. That's because you're magnifying the same amount of collected light. But with the Nikon Action EX 12x50 binoculars, that's not really the case: Thanks to their multi-coated lenses and high-refractive-index prisms, their images remain beautifully bright, which is a serious plus for anyone considering binoculars with a more powerful magnification.
The Nikon Action EX 12x50, weighing in at 2.3 lbs (1.04kg), is too heavy for long bouts of stargazing, and the higher magnification will enhance any image wobble, so we advise using a .
In our , we found that these binoculars give clear and sharp images in the center, especially when looking at stars. However, you might see some distortion near the edges of the 5.5-degree field of view. Seeing Saturn's rings individually wasn't possible with this pair of binoculars, but observers can still notice clear ansae – the extensions of the rings on either side of the planet, creating an oblate shape. Overall, they offer a great viewing experience.
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Attributes
Notes
Design
Tough waterproof rubber armor.
Performance
Excellent light gathering & sharp optics.ics.
Functionality
Quite heavy.
☆☆☆☆☆
Best for daytime use
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The Celestron Nature DX ED 12x50 are some of the finest handheld binoculars for stargazing.(Image credit: Future via Jamie Carter)
The eyecups offer 0.56-inch/14.3mm eye relief.(Image credit: Jamie Carter)
Extra-low dispersion (ED) objective lenses lessen chromatic aberration and is a high-end feature. (Image credit: Jamie Carter)
The shoulder bag has a handy pocket for storing the lens caps and/or a notebook. (Image credit: Jamie Carter)
The diopter ring has the right mix of smoothness and resistance.(Image credit: Jamie Carter)
Best for daytime use: Guaranteed bright and sharp images through the day and into the night for less than $300
Reasons to buy
+
Sharp, bright images
+
Compact and portable
+
Waterproof, fog-proof and durable
Reasons to avoid
-
They are expensive
-
Supplied with average eyecups
-
Not ideal for spectacle wearers
Buy it if
✅ You want versatile binoculars: We found these binoculars great for daytime use and nighttime stargazing, giving you the best of both worlds.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You wear glasses: There's only 0.-56-inch/14.3mm of eye-relief, so they're not ideal if you wear glasses.
The bottom line
🔎 Celestron Nature DX ED 12x50 Binoculars: One of the best binoculars for stargazing, wildlife observations and more. The key to their flexibility is their use of high-end extra-low dispersion (ED) objective lenses to create sharp, bright, and aberration-free images within a compact and portable design. ★★★★
These are some of the finest handheld binoculars for stargazing and wildlife observation. The Extra-low Dispersion (ED) objective lenses produce aberration-free sharp images.
During our , we took them to several events, which made us appreciate how lightweight and compact they are to carry in their padded case. We tested them at a motor race and were delighted with the bright and sharp views, even at dusk.
We were equally happy with how well these binoculars worked at night. The Pleiades star cluster looked sharp and clear across the entire view, with only a slight decrease in quality towards the edges, and we didn't see any noticeable color distortion either.
This is an excellent pair of binoculars that boasts great quality for a relatively low price. You can typically pick them up for under $250, which is more expensive than some pairs on this list, but they're well worth the price. We particularly love the tough rubber armor on the outer casing of the binoculars, protecting them from water damage and the odd impact.
However, we've been let down by the quality of the Celestron Nature DX ED 12x50's eyecups. They're not very comfortable to use, and in particular if you wear glasses you'll likely find them a problem. It's not serious enough to ruin the binoculars entirely but it's something to keep in mind.
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Attributes
Notes
Design
Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass.
Performance
Excellent optics.
Functionality
Lack of eye relief.
Dr Gemma Lavender
and more, Gemma is the author of several books including 'Quantum Physics in Minutes'. She holds a degree in physical sciences, a Master's in astrophysics and a PhD in computational astrophysics and became fellow of the in 2011. Gemma is also the Communications and Outreach Office at the ..
Best binoculars FAQ
Which binoculars are best?
As a rule of thumb, and under decent observing conditions, 7x35 binoculars will reveal a hundred thousand stars while 10x50s will show the finer details of the moon, planets, the Andromeda Galaxy (Messier 31) and the Orion Nebula. Larger, heavier binoculars such as 20x80s and 20x100s open up a wealth of objects such as the fainter spiral galaxies Messier 65 and NGC 3628 and a selection of globular clusters and star-forming regions.
Some models of binocular have their field of view printed on the barrels or somewhere close to the magnification and aperture. Given in degrees, this number tells you how wide you can see when peering through the eyepieces. The larger the number, the wider the scene. Ten degrees will allow the Big Dipper’s bowl to comfortably fit within your field of view.
Which is best BaK-4, BK-7 or K9 binoculars?
Water- and fogproofing are important features for binoculars not least because they are portable and are easier to travel with between climates and environments. So to make sure the binoculars live up to the manufacturer's claims, we observe with them in all kinds of weathers and temperatures.
We do the hands-on testing of binoculars so you don’t have to, but that also extends to the accessories and peripherals that they ship with. Observations are made and noted in our reviews on the quality and durability of materials. Our staff and freelance reviewers are experienced users of binoculars, having tested out multiple different types for us in different situations ranging from stargazing to wildlife observation. We compare the claims by manufacturers with real-life use to see if they hold up and will also suggest helpful accessories you may need to buy in addition to the models so you can observe your chosen subject comfortably.
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