Finding the best binoculars under 200 dollars doesn’t mean compromising on quality and performance! There are so many great options nowadays and in this article we I’ll show you some great options, without breaking the bank.
If you’re not even sure where to start and feeling a little overwhelmed – this article is for you! We’ll take you through everything you need to know when looking for the best binoculars under $200.
First, take a look at our top pick of all the best binoculars for under $200. Not sure those ones are right for you? Take a quick look at our comparison chart to easily see all of the top features. Then dive a little deeper with our in depth budget binocular reviews.
So, whether you want the best binoculars for birding under $200, best night vision binoculars under 200 or even have no idea what any of that means – we’re here to help!
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Our Pick for the Best Binoculars Under 200 Dollars
Our pick for the best rated binoculars under $200 has to be the Nikon Prostaff 7s 10 x42!
They have a long eye relief and adjustable cups so they’re perfect for glasses wearers and they are super lightweight thanks to the fiberglass body. The rubber casing makes them shockproof and gives a comfortable grip and the image is crystal clear.
Best Binoculars Under $200 Comparison Chart
Here’s a quick comparison of all the best binoculars for under 200 dollars or cheaper reviewed in this article. It highlights key features of each pair of binoculars and key benefits of each product listed.
If you are reading this on a mobile device, you might need to swipe to scroll across.
Name | Image | Strength | Rating | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Nikon Prostaff 3s | 10 x 42 | 4.7 | CHECK NOW | |
Gosky Roof Prism | 10 x 42 | 4.5 | CHECK NOW | |
Bushnell Legend L-Series | 10 x 42 | 4.7 | CHECK NOW | |
XYUN Night Vision Goggles | 3 x 25 | 4.9 | CHECK NOW | |
Samrabei Night Vision | 3 x 25 | 4.1 | CHECK NOW | |
Nightfox 100V Widescreen Digital Night Vision Infrared | 3 x 20 | 4.2 | CHECK NOW | |
Levenhuk Karma PRO | 8 x 32 | 4.3 | CHECK NOW | |
Vortex Optics Diamondback HD | 10 x 28 | 4.8 | CHECK NOW | |
Nikon Trailblazer ATB | 10 x 25 | 4.7 | CHECK NOW | |
Nikon 8245 ACULON A211 | 8 x 42 | 4.6 | CHECK NOW | |
Celestron Outland X | 10 x 25 | 4.5 | CHECK NOW | |
Nikon 16002 PROSTAFF 7S | 8 x 42 | 4.7 | CHECK NOW |
Budget Binoculars Buying Guide
Take a read of our binoculars buying guide to cut through the technical terms and figure out exactly which binoculars to buy.
Porro & Roof Prisms – What’s the Difference?
Read on to learn the difference. Whether you decide on porro or roof prisms, we’ll find you the best budget binoculars under 200 dollars.
Porro Prisms
Porro prism binoculars are centuries old and are still a common binoculars design today. The light travels in a zigzag shape inside the binoculars. The shape means they need to be a bit bulkier than the alternative roof prism design. However, porro prism binoculars typically result in a clearer picture for the viewer and a larger field of view. Usually, they are also the cheaper binoculars variety since they are simpler to make.
Roof Prisms
Roof prisms binoculars were invented more recently than porro prisms. The light doesn’t need to travel in a zigzag shape and instead travels in a straight line. The difference in how the light travels through these binoculars means that they allow for a much higher degree of magnification and a brighter perceived image.
A big advantage of porro binoculars is the more compact design since it makes them lighter and less bulky. However, due to their more complex design, roof prisms are typically more expensive than porros.
Magnification and size of lens
Binocular magnification is conveyed using a set of numbers e.g. 8×40. In this example, 8 refers to how much closer the object will appear in comparison to your naked eye. The 40 indicates the size of the lens in millimeters. This affects how much light can enter the lens (the bigger the lens, the more light). Usually, a big lens will mean the binoculars are bulkier, but you’ll get a brighter image and vice versa.
Exit pupil
The exit pupil size on a pair of binoculars refers to the size of the ring of light that can be seen when you hold them a short distance from your eyes. It can be calculated with the set of magnification numbers. Using our example above (8×40), the exit pupil size would be 5mm. I got this number by dividing the second number by the first number.
The best exit pupil size depends on the light conditions that you’ll be using the binoculars under. The exit pupil size should roughly match the size of your pupil. Bear in mind that when in low light, our pupils expand and vice versa. For use in low light, look for a pair of binoculars with an exit pupil size of 5 – 7.
Field of view
Field of view is referring to the maximum width visible through the binoculars. For example, if two people are standing 350 feet apart, and both are at either end of your vision when looking through the binoculars, then the binoculars field of view would be 350 ft. Typically, binoculars with a powerful degree of magnification will give you a smaller field of view and vice versa. A good field of view for birding is around 340 feet and up.
Material & build quality
You’ll find that most binoculars use aluminum for the body of the binoculars. The odd few will use other materials, such as a magnesium alloy. The body is then coated with silicon or gutta percha. The lenses and prisms are made from glass, which should be coated with an anti reflective material.
Types of Binoculars
Night vision binoculars
Night vision binoculars are designed to be used at night (of course!). They allow you to see in the dark because they are able to detect infrared rays of light that are given off from objects.
All objects that emit heat give off these rays – even the ground, trees, and buildings will give off some heat which is picked up by the binoculars. People and animals will of course give off more heat. Objects that give off more heat are displayed in a paler color and vice versa. If you need to see in the dark, then you will need a pair of night vision binoculars.
Small binoculars/ compact binoculars
Small binoculars are perfect for those who don’t want to lug around a great big heavy pair of binoculars. They’re also great for those who want to use them with children, since kids may find holding a pair of bigger, heavier binoculars difficult. It’s worth noting that roof prism binoculars are generally smaller and lighter than porro prisms.
Long-range binoculars
You’ll need long range binoculars if you need to see far into the distance. If this is the case for you, then look for binoculars with at least a 10x magnification. However, bear in mind that long range binoculars typically have a fairly short field of view, so they may not be suitable for bird watchers.
Birding binoculars
Most birders opt for a 7 to 10 power magnification pair of binoculars. This allows a good amount of magnification but also gives a wide enough field of view to locate birds and see them in flight.
Best Binoculars Under $200: Reviews & Recommendations
Read on for my detailed reviews and find good binoculars under 200 dollars that fit your exact needs.
What are the best binoculars for birding under $200?
Gosky 10×42 Roof Prism Binoculars
Wow – these binoculars really deliver quality, and are offered at an absolute steal of a price too! They have a 10x power magnification making them a great multipurpose pair of binoculars – use for birdwatching, nature viewing, even large stage plays, and sports matches.
Whatever you’re watching, you’ll be watching through crystal clear HD optics. The image is bright, vibrant, and crisp.
One of the coolest features of these binoculars is the smartphone mount. Easily attach your phone and use it to take super zoomed in pictures of birds, animals, or whatever your passion is – way cheaper and simpler than forking out on a big expensive camera and lens.
The mount is compatible with pretty much all smartphones. The smartphone mount definitely makes this model one of the best birding binoculars under $200.
These binoculars are designed with outdoor use in mind and can withstand rain, snow, fog, or anything else nature throws your way. The rubber exterior coating protects from accidental drops too.
Along with the binoculars and smartphone mount, you’ll get a carrying case, rubber lens covers, cleaning cloth, and neck strap. Plus, you’ll get a lifetime warranty and technical support with your purchase. I
f you’re looking for a fantastic pair of binoculars for a fantastic price, you’d be mad not to consider these.
Pros:
- Great price
- HD optics
- Comes with a phone mount
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- None to think of!
Read additional reviews for the Gosky 10×42 Roof Prism Binoculars HERE
Bushnell Legend L-Series 10×42
These roof prism Bushnell binoculars are suitable for tons of activities but Bushnell prides itself on how they are used by heaps of pro hunters and professional outdoorsy folk. No matter what you’re using them for, the 10x zoom makes close observation possible without limiting the field of view too much (340 feet). This makes them a contender for the best birding binoculars under 200 dollars.
These binoculars have a super lightweight design that is 100% water and fog proof. They also use HD technology on the lenses to minimize problems caused by water droplets, and oily fingerprints. The image is bright, colorful, and clear.
With the binoculars, you’ll get a cloth drawstring bag to store and clean them with, a carrying case which has a belt loop so you don’t always have to carry them on your neck, and a neck strap.
Pros:
- Lens technology prevents water and oil from affecting the image
- Comes with carrying case with belt strap
Cons:
- Although most have no problems, a select number of customers complain that the eyecups easily detach.
Read additional reviews for the Bushnell Legend L-Series 10×42 binoculars HERE
Nikon Prostaff 7S 10 x 42
These binoculars by Nikon are made with a fiberglass polycarbonate resin – they are super durable and so lightweight. They are designed to provide a steady view, even when used during bumpy conditions, such as on a boat or safari.
The 367 feet field of view makes great for birding too. So definitely consider these if you’re looking for the best bird watching binoculars under 200 dollars.
The fiberglass body is further strengthened by a shock resistant rubber exterior, which makes for a comfortable and slip resistant grip. These binoculars are suitable for glasses wearers since they have a long eye relief and adjustable eyecups. They use a silver alloy mirror coating, which ensures a bright and clear view, as well as a limited glare.
The lenses and prisms are ecofriendly since they are free of lead and arsenic. With the binoculars, you’ll get a neck strap and carry case.
Pros:
- Uses fiberglass in the body – super lightweight
- Designed for bumpy conditions
- Comes with carrying case
Cons:
- None!
>> read additional reviews for the Nikon Prostaff 3S 10 x 42 binoculars HERE
What are the best night vision binoculars for under $200?
XYUN Night Vision Binoculars
These binoculars work even with zero light and allow you to see anywhere up to 300 meters from your position. They have a 3-inch LCD screen that converts the infrared rays into a viewable image and you can adjust the infrared level depending on the light conditions, so you always get an optimal image. But what about when it’s not dark? Don’t worry, just switch off the infrared setting and use the binoculars to see in daylight too.
A really cool feature of these binoculars is the built in video camera. You can capture 1,280 * 960 HD images and 960P videos. Easily navigate through the various functions using the LCD screen. You will need 6 AA batteries (not included) to power these binoculars but a 32 GB memory card is included in the box which is plenty big enough to store tons of pictures and videos taken during your night or daytime adventures. The battery life is fairly long too — up to 6 hours of nighttime video recording or 17 hours daytime use.
You can really use this gadget for anything — night hunting, security purposes, camping, night navigation, night fishing, wildlife watching, bird watching, and landscape photography are just a few of the suggestions.
The 3x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom gets you close enough to the action without losing clarity. It’s also water/fog proof. Plus, if you’re not happy with your purchase you can ask for your money back, so there’s really nothing to lose.
Pros:
- Built in camera
- Included 32 GB memory card for pictures and videos
- Use at day or nighttime
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Must use 6 AA batteries – consider rechargeable batteries to be eco conscious
Read additional reviews for the XYUN Night Vision binoculars HERE
Samrabei Night Vision Binoculars
These night vision goggles can be used to see up to 300 meters from your position. They have a 3-inch screen which displays in high definition. You can still use these even in the daytime, which makes them a great multipurpose pair of binoculars. Zoom up to 3x using the optical zoom and 4x with the digital zoom.
The binoculars have a built in video camera with which you can take 1280*960 and 640*480 photos, as well as 1280*960 and 640*480 videos, both at 30 frames per second. Adjust the infrared settings with seven options, according to the light conditions so you always get the optimal image.
You must use 6 AA batteries with these binoculars, but they do have a long battery life – up to six hours continuous use with the infrared on, or 17 hours without it. You get a 32 GB memory card included in the box to store all your high def photos and videos. You can also connect them to your computer and store the data directly there.
If you’re not a fan of these for whatever reason, you can return them for a full refund, so there’s nothing to lose.
Pros:
- Built in camera
- Included 32 GB memory card for pictures and videos
- Use at day or nighttime
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Must use 6 AA batteries – consider rechargeable batteries as an eco-conscious alternative
Read additional reviews for the Samrabei Night Vision binoculars HERE
NightFox 100V Widescreen Binoculars
These night vision binoculars provide comfortable viewing, even if you wear glasses. Y ou can view up to 100 meters in the dark. The capable magnification means you can zoom 3x with the optical zoom and 2x with the digital zoom (meaning a 6x maximum zoom).
You will need to use eight AA batteries, which will allow you six hours of use with the infrared setting on. I f you turn the infrared off you can use these binoculars in the daytime and will get a longer battery life too. With your purchase, you’ll get an 18-month warranty and product support for your peace of mind.
Pros:
- Good zoom capability – up to 6x
- 18 month warranty and product support
Cons:
- Must use 6 AA batteries – consider rechargeable batteries as an eco-conscious alternative
- No built in camera as with the above models
Read additional reviews for the NightFox 100V Widescreen binoculars HERE
What are the best compact binoculars under 200 dollars?
Levenhuk Karma PRO 8×32 Compact
These roof prisms are offered at a fantastic price. They are so compact and light — great for kids or just for someone who doesn’t want to lug a great big pair of heavy binoculars around. They have an 8x zoom and 388 field of view, meaning you can fit all the action in — great for birdwatching.
The optics are multi coated and of high quality — they give perfect bright and clear images. They are 100% water and fog proof and are protected with a rubber exterior which works to prevent damage from accidental drops.
Along with the binoculars, you’ll get a neck strap, cleaning wipe, and pouch. You’ll also get a lifetime warranty against defects so you know you’re buying a product you can trust.
Pros:
- Super light and compact
- Wide field of view – 388 feet
- Great price!
Cons:
- A handful of users have found the focus wheel temperamental – use the lifetime warranty to return them if this is the case for you
Read additional reviews for the Levenhuk Karma PRO 8×32 Compact binoculars HERE
Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×28
These roof prisms by Vortex are incredibly compact and lightweight due to their magnesium alloy chassis. This also makes them really durable. The HD optics deliver fantastic images, with great color fidelity, sharpness, brightness, and resolution. They work great in low light and the lenses are multi coated to prevent glare and damage from scratches, oil, or dirt.
The field of view is 273 feet, which is a bit short of ideal for birding, but they work great for close viewing activities with their 10x magnification. Using the diopter, adjust for your eyes to ensure comfortable viewing. You can also twist the eyecups up or down depending on if you wear glasses.
The exterior uses a rubber armor to prevent damage from accidental drops, as well as providing a grippy surface. You can use these binoculars with a tripod, as well as a car/window mount (not included).
In the box, you’ll get a rainguard eyepiece cover, tethered objective lens covers, a neck strap, and a carry case. Plus, you’ll get a lifetime manufacturer warranty.
Pros:
- Super light and compact
- Compatible with tripod and car/window mount
- Lifetime manufacturer warranty
Cons:
- Not a super wide field of view — 273 feet
Read additional reviews for the Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×28 binoculars HERE
Nikon Trailblazer ATB
These Nikon roof prism binoculars have a really sleek and ergonomic style to them. They are also super lightweight. The 10x zoom makes close viewing easy and the field of view is wide enough to catch all the action (342 feet).
Use them in all weathers, since they are 100% water and fog proof. The rubber armor protects against bumps and drops whilst providing a grippy surface.
The lenses and prisms use eco friendly materials, free of arsenic or lead. The lenses are also coated with multiple layers of an anti reflective coating, meaning you get a glare free and bright image. Turn and slide the eye cups depending on if you wear glasses or not.
These are a great pair of multipurpose binoculars that are offered at a steal of a price, and with a lifetime warranty against any defects.
Pros:
- Super light and compact
- Eco friendly — free of arsenic or lead
- Great price!
Cons:
- None!
Read additional reviews for the Nikon Trailblazer ATB binoculars HERE
What are the best 8×42 binoculars under $200?
Summary of 8×42
- Magnification is 8 times closer
- Lens size is 42 mm >> lets in light, but bulkier
- Exit pupil is 5.2. This is good for low light conditions.
Nikon 8245 Aculon A211 8 x 42
You can’t get much more budget friendly than this! Zoom up to 8x with these porro prisms by Nikon. They have incredible light transmission, thanks to their large exit pupil size (42 mm) — use from dawn to dusk.
The lenses are multi coated with an antireflective coating which makes for super bright images, that are sharp and clear.
The binoculars use a durable rubber armor, which provides shock resistant protection from drops and knocks. If you wear glasses, just twist the eyecups down so you can use them comfortably. These are definitely some of the best 8×42 binoculars under 200 that you’ll find on the market
Pros:
- Super light and compact
- Amazing price!
Cons:
- None to think of!
Read additional reviews for the Nikon 8245 Aculon A211 8 x 42 binoculars HERE
Celestron – Outland X 8×42
You can’t get much of a better price on binoculars than these, and they don’t skimp on quality either!
These Celestron roof prism binoculars give an absolutely fab image — high contrast, crisp, and great color fidelity. The 8x zoom and 357 field of view allows you to see both far and wide. The multi coated optics ensure you get a high resolution, whilst being protected against scratches, dirt, and oil.
They are completely water and fog proof so you can take these binoculars anywhere. Plus, the rubber exterior armor will protect against accidental damage and give you a grippy surface to hold. If you wear glasses, just twist up the eye cups and use them comfortably.
These really are a great pair of multipurpose binoculars — take birdwatching, use hunting, or even at the theatre. Plus, with your purchase, you’ll get a limited lifetime warranty, as well as unlimited access to technical support from Celestron.
Pros:
- Super light and compact
- Incredible price!
- Superb image
Cons:
- None!
Read additional reviews for the Celestron Outland X 8×42 binoculars HERE
Nikon Prostaff 7S 8X42
These Nikon roof prisms give you an amazing, high definition, and crisp image – thanks to their phase correction coated prisms. Looking through these is just like using your naked eye, only much closer, of course! The lenses and prisms are also lead and arsenic free — rest easy eco warriors.
These binoculars are 100% water and fog proof, so take them along wherever you’re going.
The long eye relief and turn and slide eyecup design make these binoculars compatible with glasses wearers.
You can use the binoculars with a tripod (although it’s not included). The field of view on these binoculars is 357 feet, making them a good fit for birding, but you can also use them for a multitude of other activities, such as sport spectating, or even theater.
Pros:
- Super light and compact
- Superb image
Cons:
- Towards the upper price limit
Read additional reviews for the Nikon Prostaff 7S 8X42 binoculars HERE
Which are the Best Binoculars Under $200 for You?
As always, we have only included the most highly rated products here. If you’re searching for the best binoculars under $200, then you’re in the right place. You can click on each link to read more reviews for each option.
The top binoculars for you will clearly vary according to what you need them for, but we aim for this guide to give you a helping hand, saving you time and money in making the right choice of binoculars that balance quality and price.
Whatever you are looking at, have an amazing time!
Do you have any other binoculars under $200 that you highly recommend? Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know.
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About the Reviewer
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for most of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, comprehensive camping and hiking gear reviews and buying guides, and helpful packing lists and gift guides will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
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