10x42 vs 10x50 Binoculars - Which is Best?

Summary

In this informative video, Jason from Best Bunnak Reviews compares 10x42 and 10x50 binoculars, highlighting the physical and optical differences. He explains that while 10x50 binoculars are larger, heavier, and more expensive due to their bigger lenses, they capture more light for brighter views in low light conditions. The choice between the two depends on the user's specific needs and lighting situations. Jason emphasizes the importance of understanding one's requirements to make the right selection.

Takeaways

• 🔍 **Understanding Binocular Configurations**: The 10x42 and 10x50 refer to the magnification (10x) and the diameter of the objective lenses in millimeters (42mm and 50mm).
• 📏 **Physical Differences**: 10x50 binoculars are generally larger and heavier than 10x42 models due to the bigger lenses and the extra material needed to house them.
• 💡 **Light Gathering Potential**: 10x50 binoculars can capture more light due to their larger objective lenses, potentially offering brighter and higher quality images.
• 🌞 **Performance in Daylight**: In good daylight, the difference in performance between 10x42 and 10x50 may not be noticeable as both can capture sufficient light for a bright image.
• 🌲 **Low Light Advantage**: In low light conditions or when observing in dimly lit environments, 10x50 binoculars can provide a brighter and clearer view compared to 10x42 models.
• 👀 **Exit Pupil and Eye Comfort**: The larger exit pupil of 10x50 binoculars (5mm) can make them easier to use, as it accommodates larger pupils in low light and reduces the need for precise alignment of the eyes.
• 💰 **Cost Considerations**: 10x50 binoculars tend to be more expensive than 10x42 models, partly due to the increased amount of glass and material, but also due to economies of scale favoring the more popular 10x42 configuration.
• 🌐 **Market Popularity**: 10x42 binoculars are more popular and often share parts with other models like the 8x42, which contributes to their lower cost.
• 🏞️ **Choosing the Right Binoculars**: The choice between 10x42 and 10x50 depends on specific needs and situations, such as the light conditions in which they will be used.
• 🎒 **Portability and Weight**: For users who value portability and lighter weight, the 10x42 binoculars may be a better choice, especially for daytime use in good lighting conditions.
• 🛒 **Price Difference**: The price difference between 10x42 and 10x50 binoculars varies by brand and model but is typically between 5 to 20 percent more for the 10x50 variant.

Q & A

What are the main differences between 10x42 and 10x50 binoculars?

The main differences between 10x42 and 10x50 binoculars are their physical characteristics and optical performance. 10x50 binoculars have larger 50mm objective lenses compared to the 42mm ones in 10x42 models, resulting in a slightly larger and heavier build. The larger lenses of 10x50 binoculars can capture more light, potentially offering brighter and higher quality views, especially in low light conditions.

Why are 10x50 binoculars generally larger than 10x42 binoculars?

10x50 binoculars are larger because they accommodate the bigger 50mm objective lenses. The extra glass needed for the larger lenses and the additional material for the slightly larger body result in greater overall dimensions compared to the 10x42 models.

How does the weight of 10x50 binoculars compare to 10x42 binoculars?

10x50 binoculars are heavier than 10x42 models due to the extra glass required for the larger lenses and the additional material needed for the larger body.

What impact does the larger lens surface area in 10x50 binoculars have on light capture?

The larger lens surface area in 10x50 binoculars allows them to capture more light compared to 10x42 binoculars. This increased light capture potential can result in brighter and higher quality images, particularly in low light conditions.

How do optical coatings and build quality affect the performance of binoculars?

Optical coatings and build quality play a crucial role in the performance of binoculars. They determine how much of the captured light passes through the optical system and gets transmitted to the user's eyes. Higher quality coatings and build can result in brighter and clearer images, regardless of the size of the lenses.

What is the significance of exit pupil size in binoculars?

The exit pupil size, which is the shaft of light exiting the ocular lenses, is significant because it affects how much light enters the user's eyes. A larger exit pupil allows more light in, which can enhance the brightness and quality of the view, especially in low light conditions.

Why are 10x50 binoculars usually more expensive than 10x42 binoculars?

10x50 binoculars are more expensive due to the increased amount of glass needed for the larger lenses and the economies of scale. The 10x42 configuration is more popular and may share parts with other popular models like the 8x42, allowing manufacturers to produce and order parts in larger quantities, thus reducing costs.

In what situations would 10x50 binoculars be a better choice than 10x42 binoculars?

10x50 binoculars would be a better choice in low light situations such as during dawn, dusk, or in thickly forested areas. Their larger lenses and exit pupil allow for better light capture and a brighter, higher quality view in these conditions.

What are the advantages of a larger exit pupil in terms of ease of use for binoculars?

A larger exit pupil makes it easier for users to align their eyes with the binoculars, reducing the need for precise alignment and preventing black rings from forming on the edges of the view. This enhances the overall ease of use and user experience.

What factors should one consider when choosing between 10x42 and 10x50 binoculars?

When choosing between 10x42 and 10x50 binoculars, one should consider the lighting conditions in which they will be used, the importance of low light performance, the weight and size of the device, and their budget. 10x42 binoculars are suitable for daylight hours and good light conditions, are lighter and more compact, and are generally less expensive. On the other hand, 10x50 binoculars are better for low light situations and offer brighter views at the expense of being heavier, larger, and more expensive.

How does the popularity of the 10x42 configuration affect its cost compared to the 10x50 configuration?

The popularity of the 10x42 configuration means that manufacturers can produce and order parts in larger quantities due to higher demand. This economy of scale allows them to lower the cost of production, which is reflected in the generally lower price of 10x42 binoculars compared to the less popular 10x50 models.

Outlines

00:00

🔍 Understanding the Differences: 10x42 vs 10x50 Binoculars

This paragraph introduces the topic of comparing 10x42 and 10x50 binoculars. The speaker, Jason, explains that the video will cover the main differences in both physical characteristics and optical performance, helping viewers decide which configuration suits their needs better. It highlights the importance of understanding binocular configurations and suggests watching a previous video for more information. The paragraph sets the stage for a detailed comparison, emphasizing that while 10x50 binoculars may offer advantages, they are not the best choice for everyone.

05:02

📏 Size and Weight Comparison: 10x42 vs 10x50

This paragraph delves into the physical differences between 10x42 and 10x50 binoculars. It explains that 10x50 binoculars, with their larger 50mm objective lenses, are generally larger and heavier than their 42mm counterparts. The speaker details how the size difference is manifested in the barrel diameters and lengths, noting that the difference is not very significant. The paragraph also discusses the impact of lens size on light capture and image brightness, emphasizing that while larger lenses can capture more light, the quality of the optical system and other factors play a crucial role in the final image quality. It also touches on the exit pupil size and how it affects the perception of brightness in different lighting conditions.

Keywords

💡Binoculars

Binoculars are optical instruments used for magnified viewing of distant objects. In the video, the focus is on comparing two types of binoculars with different specifications, specifically 10x42 and 10x50, to help users decide which is best suited for their needs. Binoculars are important for various activities such as birdwatching, stargazing, or attending sporting events, where enhanced visibility is required.

💡Objective Lenses

Objective lenses in binoculars are the lenses closest to the object being viewed. They gather light and initiate the magnification process. The video highlights the difference in size between 42mm and 50mm objective lenses, which affects the binoculars' weight, brightness, and low-light performance. Larger objective lenses, as in the 10x50 binoculars, can capture more light, leading to brighter and clearer images, especially in low-light conditions.

💡Magnification

Magnification in binoculars refers to the number of times the actual size of the viewed object is increased. In the video, both binocular configurations have a 10x magnification, meaning they enlarge the image tenfold. Magnification is a critical factor in determining the detail and clarity of distant objects but should be balanced with other factors like lens size and weight for optimal performance.

💡Optical Performance

Optical performance refers to the quality and clarity of the image produced by the binoculars. It is influenced by factors such as lens size, quality of glass, and optical coatings. The video emphasizes that while larger lenses can capture more light, the overall optical performance also depends on the quality of the entire optical system, including how well light is transmitted through the lenses and the build quality.

💡Physical Characteristics

Physical characteristics refer to the size, weight, and shape of the binoculars. The video discusses how the 10x50 binoculars are larger and heavier than the 10x42 models due to the bigger objective lenses. These characteristics affect the portability and ease of use of the binoculars, which are important considerations for users who prioritize compactness and lightweight design.

💡Low Light Performance

Low light performance is the ability of binoculars to produce clear and bright images in conditions where there is insufficient light. The video explains that the 10x50 binoculars, with their larger objective lenses, have an advantage in low light situations because they can capture more light, leading to brighter images. This is particularly beneficial for users who operate in dimly lit environments or during dawn or dusk.

💡Exit Pupil

The exit pupil is the diameter of the light beam as it exits the binocular's eyepiece and enters the viewer's eye. It is calculated by dividing the objective lens diameter by the magnification. A larger exit pupil allows more light to enter the eye, enhancing visibility in low light conditions. The video explains that 10x50 binoculars have a 5mm exit pupil, which is larger than the 4.2mm exit pupil of the 10x42 binoculars, making them better suited for low light viewing.

💡Price

Price refers to the cost of the binoculars. In the context of the video, it is noted that 10x50 binoculars are generally more expensive than their 10x42 counterparts. This price difference is attributed to the economies of scale, as the 10x42 configuration is more popular and shares parts with other popular models like the 8x42, allowing manufacturers to produce them more cost-effectively.

💡User Requirements

User requirements refer to the specific needs and preferences of the individual using the binoculars. The video emphasizes that the choice between 10x42 and 10x50 binoculars depends on the user's specific requirements, such as the lighting conditions they will be using the binoculars in and their preference for size and weight.

💡Optical Coatings

Optical coatings are thin layers of material applied to the surface of lenses to reduce reflection and increase the transmission of light, thereby improving image quality. The video mentions that the quality of optical coatings plays a significant role in the binoculars' ability to capture and transmit light, affecting the overall optical performance and image clarity.

Highlights

The main differences between 10x42 and 10x50 binoculars are discussed, focusing on physical characteristics and optical performance.

10x50 binoculars have slightly larger 50mm objective lenses compared to the 42mm lenses of 10x42 binoculars, which can be more suitable for some users and applications.

The larger 50mm objective lenses require a larger barrel size, making 10x50 binoculars slightly bigger than their 10x42 counterparts.

Despite the difference in lens size, the overall size difference between 10x42 and 10x50 binoculars is minimal.

10x50 binoculars are slightly heavier due to the additional glass and material required for the larger lenses.

The larger surface area of 10x50 binoculars allows them to capture more light, potentially providing brighter and higher quality views.

The quality of the optics and build, as well as the effectiveness of the glass optical coatings, play a crucial role in the overall performance of the binoculars, not just the size of the lenses.

In optimal light conditions, a high-quality 10x42 binocular can perform similarly to a 10x50, but the latter excels in low light situations.

The exit pupil size differs between the two configurations, with 10x42 producing a 4.2mm exit pupil and 10x50 producing a 5mm exit pupil, affecting low light performance and ease of use.

Larger exit pupils in 10x50 binoculars make them slightly easier to use, as it requires less precision to achieve a clear image without black rings on the edges.

10x50 binoculars are generally more expensive than 10x42 models due to economies of scale and less popular demand.

The choice between 10x42 and 10x50 should be based on specific needs and requirements, such as operating conditions and personal preferences.

For daylight hours and good light conditions, 10x42 binoculars may be preferable for their lighter weight, compactness, and lower cost.

In low light situations or thickly forested areas, the 10x50 binoculars offer better low light performance and would be the more suitable choice.

The video provides a comprehensive guide to help users decide which binocular configuration is right for their specific needs.

Transcripts

in this video i'm going to go over the

main differences that you can expect

from similar quality 10 by 42 binoculars

and 10 by 50 binoculars both in their

physical characteristics as well as

their optical performance

in this way you will be able to decide

which configuration is exactly right for

your specific needs and requirements and

we're going to start right now

[Music]

hello and welcome to best bunnak reviews

my name is jason

having just finished testing and

reviewing these excellent quality kite

links hd plus 10 by 50 binoculars they

reminded me how for some uses and indeed

therefore some users combining slightly

larger 50 millimeter objective lenses

with a 10x magnification makes far more

sense and indeed could be a better

choice than the default option of a

10x42 binocular yet they hardly ever

considered

however this choice won't be right for

everyone so in this video i'm going to

go through the main differences between

the two so that the end of it you'll be

able to choose which configuration is

exactly right for your specific

requirements

before we begin it is important that you

understand what it means when we refer

to a 10 by 42 or a 10 by 50

configuration if you are unsure please

first take a moment to watch my video on

what the numbers on a binocular mean

link up above or down in the description

below

it stands to reason that in order to

accommodate the larger objective lenses

the barrels on a 50 millimeter binocular

need to be larger than those on a 42

millimeter one this has a bearing on the

instrument's overall dimensions and thus

most 10 by 50 binoculars tend to be

greater in size than 10 by 42.

as you would expect 50 millimeter lenses

are eight millimeters larger in diameter

than 42 millimeter ones and thus the

ends of the barrels where the objective

lenses are set reflect this difference

by roughly the same amount

as you move down towards the ocular

lenses however they taper down in size

as most 10 by 50 binoculars would

incorporate the same eyepieces as that

used by the 42 millimeter versions

and thus the rear ends of these two

binoculars are roughly about the same

size

10 by 50 binoculars also tend to be a

little longer than the 42 millimeter

counterparts however the difference here

is usually fairly minimal and by that i

usually mean about less than 10

millimeters

therefore

as you can see the overall difference in

size between a 10 by 42 binocular and

that of a 10 by 51 is really not that

great

indeed i would go as far as to say that

unless you have them side by side most

users would probably not guess the

difference if you were to swap out their

binoculars without them knowing

glass is a reasonably heavy material and

thus once again the extra glass needed

to make the larger lenses and the extra

material needed for the slightly larger

body results in a 10 by 50 binocular

being a little heavier versus a 10 by 42

model using the same level of materials

just as the large windows in your house

are able to let in more light than the

small ones the greater surface area on

these 10 by 50 binoculars means they

have the potential to capture more light

than the smaller ones on these 10 by 42

binoculars

more light means more information and

therefore assuming everything else

remains equal these 10 by 50 binoculars

have the potential to produce brighter

higher quality views than these 10 by 42

binoculars

although here it is important to stress

that just having larger lenses and thus

the ability to capture more light does

not automatically result in brighter

better quality views

firstly as much of the captured light as

possible needs to pass through the

entire optical system and get

transmitted onto your eyes

and this is where the differing levels

of glass optical coatings and the build

quality do play a really important part

on top of this and even if the level of

optics used between these two sizes of

binoculars was identical there is a good

chance that during the day and in

reasonably good light conditions that

the view between these 10 by 42

binoculars and the 10 by 50 would look

to be the same

this is because a really good quality 10

by 42 binocular is easily capable of

capturing enough light and passing it

onto your eyes for you to perceive a

bright high quality image

however it is in situations where light

conditions are not optimal like just

before dawn or just after the sun is set

or even in a thickly forested area this

is where the extra capacity of the

larger lenses comes to the fore and this

is where you start to notice a

difference in brightness between these

two binoculars much of this difference

can be explained by the correlation

between the size of the shaft of light

exiting the ocular lenses known as the

exit pupil and the size of the pupils in

your eyes

10 by 42 binoculars produce 4.2

millimeter extra pupils roughly and 10

by 50 binoculars produce 5 millimeter

extra pupils

when there is plenty of light your

pupils constrict to a size smaller than

both the extra pupil on the 10 by 50 and

the 10 by 42 and thus they both supply

you with more than enough light for you

to perceive a bright view

however as the conditions get dimmer

your pupils begin to expand until in

very low light conditions the pupils in

some people's eyes it does vary

can reach seven millimeters in diameter

thus in these situations the amount of

light your eyes are receiving is

sub-optimal and therefore the 10 by 50

due to its larger exopuple will look to

produce a brighter better quality view

for more information on this please take

a look at my complete guide to the x of

pupil which i will link to in the

description below

it is also worth noting that as well as

an improvement in low light performance

a larger exit pupil also makes a

binocular slightly easier to use this is

because the largest shaft of light

exiting the ocular lenses is makes it

easier for you to line up your eyes with

it and therefore you don't have to be as

precise to achieve an image without any

black rings forming on the edges of the

view

10 by 50 binoculars are usually a little

more expensive than the 10 by 42

alternative in the same series from the

same manufacturer so why is this well

whilst it is true you need more glass

and a fraction more material to make a

10 by 50. the real reason they are more

expensive is down to the economies of

scale you see the 10 by 42 is a much

more popular configuration on top of

this it will share many of the parts

including the chassis

with that of the even more popular 8x42

binoculars therefore manufacturers can

afford to order in many more and make

many more of these parts than they do

with the less popular 10 by 50.

just how more expensive they are depends

on the brand what price range of

binoculars you are looking at and where

in the world you are shopping but in

general i have found that the price

difference tends to be about between 5

to 20 more for a 10 by fifty compared to

the equivalent ten by forty two

ten by forty two ten by fifty indeed

eight by twenty six eight by forty two

ten by twenty six you know which is best

you know for me there is no singular

right answer to this question it just

basically comes down to what's best for

your specific needs and requirements

therefore to sum up i would say that the

10 by 42 option is best for you if you

mostly operate during daylight hours in

reasonably good light conditions

then you will also gain the added

benefit of a slightly lighter more

compact device that costs a little less

however should you also operate in low

light situations be that in thick forest

areas or you know before sunrise or just

after sunset then the 10 by 50 with its

low light performance that almost

matches that of an 8 by 42 would be a

better option to go for

so there you have it i do hope this

video has cleared up a few things for

you and that you now know which version

to get for your specific needs

if you did like this video i'd

appreciate it very much if you could

just press the thumbs up and indeed if

you could subscribe to my channel this

is something that really helps me to

produce more and more content for you

guys so anyway thanks very much for

watching and i'll see you again next

time cheers for now

[Music]

you