10 Best Binoculars Under $200 – {2023’s Editors Choice}

Last Updated: Feb 19, 2023 @ 2:22 pm

Birding or Hunting isn’t exactly an inexpensive sport, but there are actually some quite respectable best binoculars available for under $200. While even the best binoculars under 200 may be slightly bulkier or less sharp than more expensive models like the Vortex Viper HD, you’ll likely be hard-pressed to find any noticeable performance differences.

In other words, if you’re looking for durable binoculars that can take a beating and do it all in the deepest of woods or the widest of prairies, $200 is more than enough to get you an excellent pair of hunting and/or birding optics.

best binoculars under 200 dollar

After putting over 50 different Birding and hunting binoculars to the test, I’ve managed to discover nine best inexpensive binoculars yet highly effective for hunting or bird watching. Any cash-strapped hunter or birder would be proud to wear.

If you Are in a Hurry And Want to Skip the Details, I have compiled the Quick List Below For the Best Binoculars Under 200 Dollars

Comparison of Best Binoculars Under $200

Model

Weight

Image & Check Price

FOV ft@1000yds

Exit Pupil
(mm)

Eye Relief

Prism Type

Binoculars Guru editors choice

11 Oz

425

5.2

17.8 mm

SMART Bak-4 Prism

33.9 oz

199 ft @ 10x

for 10x : 5 mm


For 22x: 2.3 mm


8.6 mm @ 10x

Porro Prism

23.1 oz

426 ft

5.2

17 mm

Roof Prism

Binoculars Guru editors choice

Apprx.

23.5 oz

325 ft for 10x

393.7 ft for 8x

4.2

15 mm for 10x

17 mm for 8x

Roof prism

23.5 oz


340 ft

4.2

18 mm

Roof Prism

22.7 oz

324 ft

4.2

15.55

Roof prism

36 oz


342 ft

5.0

17 mm

Porro Prism

22 oz

305 ft

4.2

N/A

Roof prism

24 oz

332 ft

4.2

16 mm

Roof prism

23.5

341 ft

4.2

15.5 mm

Roof prism

Special Attention : In case, If you are not on a tight budget then check out these 

Best Binoculars Under 200

We Bincoulars guru Team categorized binoculars under differnt section for the sake of budget conscious people. Explore which are the Best Binoculars Under 500 , Best Binos Under 300 and a lower range of best binoculars under 100 of 2020's market.

Also we have enlisted 4 best rangefinder binoculars for hunting which are awesome too to use and will worth your money if you are a professional hunter. There a range of people who want to get best binoculars for the money if you are in that category then it advisible to check that review too.

What to Look for When Buying Binoculars for Under $200

When on the hunt for the best hunting binoculars under 200 dollars, it’s important to take note of the overall construction and design of each binocular as well as the features they have to offer.

For instance,

  • is the binocular waterproof and fog proof?
  • Is it durable and well-made?
What to look for when choosing binoculars under 200

These are just a few of the questions hunters should ask themselves when searching for the best binoculars under $200. The five budget-friendly hunting binoculars below hit the mark in each of these categories.


Best Binoculars Under 200 Reviews


1. Nikon 8252 ACULON A211 10-22x50 Zoom Binocular Review

I recently got to test the Nikon 8252 ACULON binocular and boy is it an optical masterpiece. For starters, the binocular has an attractive matte black finish and has rubber cover that makes it easy to grip. Contrary to my expectations, this Nikon binocular is not bulky, on the contrary weighing 3.06 pounds, it is quite lightweight.

This came as a surprise since it comes with a large 50 mm objective lens and a variable magnification of 10X to 22X. As its name suggests, zooming in on the action is super easy thanks to the binocular's zoom adjustment knob that turns effortlessly.

And despite its budget level price tag, this binocular boasts of fully multi-coated lenses crafted from high-quality eco glass. I was amazed at how sharp and clear images appear regardless of the magnification level.

Bottom line, this is a great piece of optical hardware designed for long range viewing.

Sale
Nikon 8252 Aculon A211 10-22x50 Zoom Binocular (Black)
  • Aculon A211 10 22x50 zoom binoculars are designed to be as light as possible along with excellent ergonomics
  • Easy to reach fingertip zoom control knob allows for quick and easy adjustment of the binoculars magnification from 10...
  • Turn and slide rubber eyecups allow for comfortable viewing during extended periods of use; Minimum focus distance 49.2...

2. Bushnell Legend L-Series 10x42mm Binoculars Review

The Bushnell Legend 10X42mm Binocular is another awesome binocular from a leading optics manufacturer. A member of the Legend L-Series, this binocular has featured more akin to high-end binoculars. In addition, it weighs only 2.2 pounds, meaning it is easy to carry around.

Unlike the Nikon above, this has a fixed magnification of 10X and a 42 mm objective lens. Of worth noting is that the prisms on this binocular are designed using high-quality Bak4 glass. This is the same glass used in making prisms for high-end optics such as Carl Zeiss binoculars.

And it gets better, this binocular is 100% waterproof and fog proof and can thus withstand harsh weather conditions. Due to its fixed magnification, this Legend L Bushnell is best suited for bird watching.

Bushnell Legend L-Series Binocular, Black, 10x42mm
  • 10 x 42Millimeter. Length-5.5 inch
  • Legend L Series
  • 340ft field of view

3. Nikon Prostaff 7s 16003 Binocular Roof Prism Review

Nikon, a well-established and famous company, is known best for its outstanding optics. In my 9 Top picks of best binoculars under 200, my third pick is; Nikon Prostaff 7s.

The reasons behind to choose this bino; it provides crystal clear, and sharp images without any doubt in this price range. The robust and rubberized design of Nikon Prostaff 7s makes it rugged. It is waterproof and fog proof which enhances the flexibility of use it in any situation especially for the hunters and birders. Even for African safari expeditions this binocular is one of the best choice.

Nikon Prostaff 7s optics have multilayer prism coating with phase correction technology. This feature helps to transmit the maximum amount of light so that you can see the object more clearly in the relatively dark area.

To prevent from the moisture getting inside and to keep it safe from the fungus and it sealed with an o-ring. It is Also filled with nitrogen to deny fog from building up.

One of the best parts I love most in this bino is it's easy to use and works great even if you wear glasses.

Nikon 16003 PROSTAFF 7S 10x42 Inches All-Terrain Binocular (Black)
  • Whether you're looking at wildlife or scenery, 2 things are important: color and clarity The PROSTAFF 7S brings you...
  • Even eyeglass wearers will enjoy looking through the PROSTAFF 7S The turn and slide rubber eyecups allow anyone to...
  • The PROSTAFF 7S is comfortable to hold, even in wet conditions, thanks to its rubber armored body The rubber armor also...

4. Vanguard Spirit XF Review

A close relative to the revered and more expensive Spirit ED binoculars, the Vanguard Spirit XF binos are also one of the best hunting binoculars under 200 being made today.

Aside from featuring standard glass, as opposed to the “enhanced definition” glass used on the Spirit ED, the Spirit XF also features an open bridge construction, which many hunters actually prefer over the center column design of the Spirit ED.

Despite its use of standard glass, the Spirit XFs live up to Vanguard’s reputation for creating super sharp optics with excellent clarity. In fact, while testing them out on a recent excursion, I was able to zoom in on a herd of elk and count their points from two crests away!

The Spirit XF binoculars are also quite nimble and easy to use. With a quality harness, I’m sure you’ll appreciate these affordable Vanguard binos as much as I do.

Sale
Vanguard Spirit XF Binoculars, Black, 10x42
  • Bak4 phase-coated prisms and fully multi-coated lenses
  • Two stage twist out eyecups with long eye relief
  • Excellent edge-to-edge clarity and brilliant color reproduction

5. Nikon 7245 Action 10x50 EX Extreme ATB Review

With a name like "Extreme All-Terran Binocular", a lot is to be expected from the Nikon 7245 Action binocular. Fortunately, this binocular does live up to its name. Equipped with a large 50 mm objective lens coupled by a fixed 10X magnification, this binocular is a delight to use.

Nikon did not leave anything to chance in the design of this binocular's optics. In this regard, the manufacturer uses high-index Bak-4 glass with multi layers of reflective coating.

Therefore, do not expect to get any glare with the Nikon Action. For unrivaled comfort, the Nikon Action offers an impressive 17.2 inches of eye relief. In keeping true to its all-terrain tag, this binocular is both waterproof and fog proof and has a tough rubber covering.

Sale
Nikon 7245 Action 10x50 EX Extreme All-Terrain Binocular
  • Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance
  • All-metal chassis in lightweight polycarbonate shell
  • Rubber-coated body for firm, non-slip grip

6. Celestron 71404 TrailSeeker 8x42 Binoculars Review

To many of us, Celestron is that company that makes astronomy binocular. And while this is true, Celestron has a great line of terrestrial binoculars, one of which is the Celestron 71404 TrailSeeker.

With an 8X magnification and a 42 mm objective lens, the TrailSeeker is a great binocular for the money. In fact, it has been rated as one of the best binoculars under 200.

A lightweight housing crafted from a magnesium alloy protects the inside of the binocular. On the other hand, high-quality Bak-4 roof prisms guarantee an incredible image quality.

And that's not all; the binocular has fully multi-coated optics for increased light transmission and image brightness. The 42 mm objective lens and 8X magnification combine to give a great and wide field of view.

Sale
Celestron – TrailSeeker 8x42 Binoculars – Fully Multi-Coated Optics – Binoculars for Adults – Phase and Dielectric Coated BaK-4 Prisms – Waterproof & Fogproof – Rubber Armored – 6.5 Feet Close Focus
  • BaK-4 PRISMS WITH PHASE AND DIELECTRIC COATINGS: This premium-quality binocular features BaK-4 Prisms with Phase and...
  • DURABLE, LIGHTWEIGHT BODY: The TrailSeeker Binocular has a durable magnesium alloy frame that is light in weight and...
  • WIDE FIELD OF VIEW: The Celestron TrailSeeker binocular features 8x magnification and a wide field, so you can follow...

7. Leupold BX-1 McKenzie Green Ring Binoculars Review

For hunters in search of the streamlined feel and high performance of a roof prism binocular without paying an arm and a leg, the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie is a solid choice. You get a rugged and reliable waterproof design, fully multi-coated lenses, and BAK-4 prisms for razor sharp clarity virtually anywhere.

The BX-1s also provide smooth focusing for easy targeting, armor coating, and handy twist eyecups that make them using them a piece of cake. They’re also water and fog proof, which is honestly unexpected given their surprisingly low price point.

No other hunting binos in their price range offers BAK-4 prisms, fully multi-coated lenses, and such great design, making the Leupold BX-1 McKenzie one of the best binoculars under 200 on the market today.

Leupold BX-1 McKenzie 10x42 Binoculars, Shadow Gray
  • Leupold model #173788 Bx-1 McKenzie 10x42mm in shadow Gray
  • 100% waterproof, Fog proof, & shockproof
  • Fully multi-coated lens system ensures maximum brightness for clarity, contrast, and color fidelity

8. Vortex Optics Crossfire 10x42  Review

Like other Vortex Optics hunting binoculars, the vortex crossfire provides first-class build quality typically found on binoculars costing much, much more.

The incredibly user-friendly vortex crossfire binoculars have twist up eye cups, a locking diopter, and an easy-to-use center focus wheel, providing users with the highest level of adjustability at the lowest possible price. With rubberized grips, an armored chassis, and nitrogen-purged tubes for a 100 percent waterproof and fog proof design as well, these binos are without a doubt one of the best binoculars under 200 dollars being made today.

Sale
Nikon 8252 Aculon A211 10-22x50 Zoom Binocular (Black)
  • Aculon A211 10 22x50 zoom binoculars are designed to be as light as possible along with excellent ergonomics
  • Easy to reach fingertip zoom control knob allows for quick and easy adjustment of the binoculars magnification from 10...
  • Turn and slide rubber eyecups allow for comfortable viewing during extended periods of use; Minimum focus distance 49.2...

9. Bushnell Excursion HD Roof Prism Binocular


Out of the 7 million Americans who hunt each year, I bet at least half of them own Bushnell products. The brand is simply known for putting out quality stuff, and the Bushnell Excursion HD binoculars are no different.

Providing the largest field of view in its class, the Bushnell Excursion HD allows you to sharply see and track game up to 341 feet away. Combined with its multi-coated lenses, top-end Bak-4 roof prisms, and premium phase coatings, the Bushnell Excursion HD binoculars offer similar performance to binoculars costing three times as much.

This alone makes the Excursion HDs one of the best binoculars for hunting under 200. However, when you also factor in its compact design and smooth center focus wheel, these binoculars are a no-brainer as far as I’m concerned. Simply put, if you’re looking for the best binoculars under 200 dollars, I would suggest getting your paws on these Bushnell binos today!


Final Verdict

As you can see, you don’t have to spend a small fortune to get a quality pair of hunting or bird watching binoculars. For under $200, you can hunt confidently knowing you have the power of premium optics on your side.

I’ve tested dozens of different birding and hunting binoculars over the years, but the models above are by far the best. If you’re looking for the best hunting binoculars under 200 or all terrain binoculars under 200, you can't go wrong with any of these awesome options. Now comes the hard part of choosing which one!




Last update on 2023-09-18

Smith
 

"Smith is an outdoor enthusiast and Just loves everything about binoculars. Since his childhood he has been a fan of optical gadgets & going into the Jungle with his uncle was his favorite pastime. Besides, He loves watching & studying birds & animals. He is a mechanical engineering graduate and New Jersey Resident. He loves to review binoculars and related optical Instruments and loves testing each one of them." When he is not fiddling with one of his binoculars, you can find him playing his favorite sport Pickleball."

Click Here to Leave a Comment Below 11 comments
John Smith - June 10, 2017

Excellent buying guide and reviews.

Reply
    BinocularsGuru - June 10, 2017

    Thanks john. Stay tuned with us!

    Reply
    Migdalia Cacy - June 26, 2021

    When you are looking to purchase binoculars, you need to consider how often you will be using them. If you are just going to be bringing the binoculars around with you to use at certain times, then you do not need to worry about cleaning them as much.

    Reply
    Corazon Scarsella - July 7, 2021

    You can reach out and touch objects that are far away and even view objects that are far away when you have a good pair of binoculars. But if you need to zoom in on a close object, say to grab an eel, then you would be better off using the smaller, tenx models.

    Reply
Shiela - April 8, 2018

Thank you, I’ve recently been searching for info
approximately this subject for ages and yours is the best I have came upon till now.
However, what in regards to the conclusion? Are you positive in regards to the source?

Reply
    Binoculars Guru - April 9, 2018

    YES! Absolutely 🙂

    Reply
Alex - August 24, 2019

Very helpful, I found exactly what I’ve been looking for!!!

Reply
Outdoor Dude - November 28, 2020

Hi guys, thanks for the work you out in on this but you should really consider developing a mobile friendly site. The layout makes it all but unusable on a mobile device.

Reply
Elen Rose - November 24, 2021

Thanks for coming up with top 5 and explaining each in details. This has been great help for people like me who do not know much about binoculars and would like to get best deal out of their $.I want a good bino for sambar hunting i was looking at Monarch 5 8×42 as my price range is between $400 to $500. After reading your recommendations i am seriously thinking about Avalon 10×42 PRO HD Binoculars. How do you rate them against monarch 3 and 5 ? can you also give us some more info on Avalon including made in etc ?

Reply
Lily Gul - December 5, 2021

Found this article piece quite interesting. Love the phrase: “Fact is, you can’t shoot what you can’t see.” – this couldn’t be more true! I’ve wondered if I can use the Bushnell Legend series mentioned here for bird watching? I know about the Celestron Granite, it has good specs. Any suggestions? Many thanks!

Reply
Richard - March 17, 2022

Thank you so much for giving us so many options to buy. I have a total budget of $300. But after your guide of $200 binos, I am convinced to buy binoculars under $200. Thank you again for saving my extra $100

Reply

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