Vortex Diamondback 10×42 Vs 10×50 Binoculars Comparison
If you are here to know, whether you want to choose Vortex Diamondback 10×42 vs 10×50 for your next expedition, you are at the right place.
With such a wide choice of binoculars available in the market, Vortex has created a distinct name amongst them. Launched in 2016, the Vortex Diamondbacks have attracted to all class of binocular enthusiasts.
The diamondback models are in 8×28, 10×28, 8×32, 10×32, 8×42, 10×42, 10×50 and 12×50 configuration. All come with dielectric coated roof prism Schmidt-Pechan instruments.
Here we compare the two popular diamondbacks i.e. 10×50 and 10×42 models of the vortex arsenal.
We compare them on various parameters with our experience and detailed user reviews.
First let’s see the specification of the Vortex Diamondback 10×50 vs 10×42;
Vortex Diamondback 10×42 Vs 10×50 Binoculars Comparison
Vortex Diamondback 10×42 Vs 10×50 Binoculars-Detailed Comparison & Analysis
Vortex Diamondback 10×42 Binoculars, lighter and larger fov than 10×50
Magnification and Objective Lens Diameter
Both Binoculars have the same magnification i.e. 10X. The 10×42’s have an objective lens diameter of 42mm while the 10×50’s are fitted with a 50mm diameter objective lens.
Build Quality
Both binoculars have a rugged exterior with a dark green external rubber coating to keep them handy in the rain, snow, or any other harsh outdoor condition.
All the Diamondbacks are having rubberized twist-up eyecups that offer you a lot of set points. Also, they move very smoothly and easily.
Both Binoculars have big, comfortable central focusing wheels with ribs that are easy to fiddle with even with gloves on.
The 10×42 and 10×50 models of both the binoculars are waterproof and Argon gas purged which makes them fog proof too. You don’t need to worry about glassing even If you are in humid, cold, or misty weather conditions.
Both the binoculars are backed by the popular Vortex VIP lifetime warranty
Image Clarity/ Optical Performance
The 10×50 binoculars will have the same magnification as the 10×42 diamondbacks,
So you might be wondering what is the difference?
The difference is that the 10×50 will allow more light to pass in for a better and brighter image.
If you are intending to use your binoculars in low light conditions such as dusk, dawn, or cloudy weather then simply go for 10×50 diamondback binoculars.
On bright days you can expect both to perform the same.
The prism in both binoculars are dielectric coated BAK-4 in roof arrangement and produces a clear and bright image.
In both the binoculars chromatic aberration is a bit lower than medium in the centre, which becomes a bit evident on the edge of the field of view.
Overall, The 10×42’s do everything the 10X50’s do. You might get better performance at dusk and dawn with the ’50s, but they are much heavier and bulkier.
Weight Considerations
If you are going to use your binoculars all day hanging to your chest obviously a 10×42 binocular will do more justice to your requirement.
The 10×50 binos are particularly heavier and bigger in size than the 10×42’s.
10×42 diamondback weighs 21.4 oz, while the diamondback 10×50 weighs 29.6 ounces.
The 10×42 are also compact in size measuring 5.8” X 5.1” while the 10×50 measures 6.7” X 5.5”
In short, for carrying in the field the Diamondback 10×42 is the way to go, much lighter than the 10×50.
Also, The 50mm will be heavier and, perhaps, a bit harder to hold steady. But, of course, it will gather more light for a potentially brighter image.
You may need a tripod for 10×50 binoculars to help you with the shakiness and stabilizing extra weight.
Pricing
The Vortex 10×42 roof prism is priced cheaper than the 10×50’s model.
Both models are value for money for their specific ranges and magnification.
Exit Pupil/ Eye Relief
The eye relief of the 10×50 diamondback is 17mm which is 2mm more than the 15mm eye relief of the 10×42 model.
A large exit pupil means a more relaxed eye and less strain in 10×50’s while viewing distant objects.
Field Of View
The field of view of the 10×50 model is 315ft @1000 yards while the FOV of the 10×42 model is 330ft @ 1000Yards.
The close focus is 7ft for the 10×50 model while the close focus of the 10×42 model is 6.7ft which is almost comparable.
When To Go For Vortex 10X42
Vortex Diamondback 10×42
When you want binoculars for hiking, birdwatching, or regular viewing for your outdoor activities during normal light conditions.
The Vortex Diamondback 10X42 has a superior field of view, a closer minimum focus distance than the 10×50’s.
Moreover, considering the price and handling it’s easier than the 10×50’s.
.Its optical performance is virtually on par with the 10X50 other than brightness and a little blurring around the edges.
If you have started glassing recently and want a new set of good-quality binoculars for under $300, you’re probably less likely to even spot this.
Read our full Vortex Diamondback 10×42 Binoculars Review
When To Go For Vortex 10×50
Vortex diamondback 10×50 Binoculars, brighter images than the 10×42’s diamondback
If you are more into brighter images or use binoculars more at dawn or dusk, you would be better off with a 10×50’s set. They also perform well than the 10×42 counterpart on overcast days or cloudy winter days.
The difference in prices is minuscule, If you have the necessary above requirements with the trade-off being more weight in hands to carry while your glassing trips.
You might prefer Vortex Diamondback 10X50 over the 10X42 for stargazing and a trip and tripod adapter would be recommended for that.
Read our full Vortex Diamondback 10×50 Binoculars Review
Conclusion
Overall, both binoculars are well established in the under $300 binoculars range.
They both perform similarly on bright days. While on overcast days, in early mornings and, late evenings diamondback 10×50 performs better owing to its large objective lens size.
Although 10×50 is brighter than the 10×40’s, It will not be convenient to carry it all day due to the bulkiness and big size.
Moreover, a tripod would be more recommended if you are choosing the 10×50’s
Both The binoculars are padded by rubber armor; they are waterproof, argon purged, and come with a lifetime warranty from the producer. These features make them one of the best in their class.
Finally, It depends on you, whether you think it’s worth carrying the larger 10×50 binoculars all day or if the performance increase is going to be worth enough to justify the extra weight/size/cost.
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If you want to add anything to the comparison, feel free to mention the same.
Last update on 2024-03-19
