Written By John VanDerLaan
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If you did a google search for the best hunting binoculars under $100, you undoubtedly found articles that were clearly not written by hunters, but by marketers trying to sell you binoculars.
We are real hunters and have used and tested each of these binoculars before we reviewed them.
Here's what we found...
Best Binoculars For Hunting Under $100 At A Glance
Best Cheap Binoculars: Reviews And Recommendations
1. Bushnell Trophy Binoculars
Bushnell Trophy binoculars are high on quality by providing many of the features of higher end binoculars at a much lower price.
The small ergonomic design makes them easy to hold and the large focus knob is easy to use, even with gloves on.
Bushnell Trophy binoculars features include:
- Nitrogen purged and O-Ring sealed for 100% waterproof and fogproof performance.
- BAK4 Prisms
- Slim, Ergonomic shape with a no slip grip and large focusing wheel for easy, quick focus, even with gloves on.
- Fully multi coated lenses.
- Lead Free Glass.
My favorite feature of the Bushnell Trophy binoculars is the "Yes That's Covered No Questions Asked Lifetime Warranty".
PROs
- I love the small size.
- I found it very easy to reach and use the focus wheel.
- I love the warranty.
- Incredibly low price for the high end features.
- Purchase includes objective lens caps, eyepiece rainguard, neck strap, carrying case, lens cloth, and instruction manual.
CONs
- They may fog up in freezing temperatures.
Check out this video about the Bushnell warranty.
The Bushnell Trophy Binoculars deserve a good long look. They have pretty good glass and a solid build quality.
To learn more visit our Bushnell Trophy Binoculars Review.
2. Barska Blackhawk Binoculars
The Barska Blackhawk binoculars are also 100% Waterproof and fogproof thanks to being o-ring sealed and nitrogen purged.
Features
- The Barska Blackhawk binoculars feature Fully Coated Lenses and BAK-4 prisms which deliver stunningly clear and bright images.
- These binoculars are o-ring sealed and nitrogen purged for 100% waterproof and fogproof use. This feature is usually found in much more expensive binoculars.
- These Binoculars feature a diamond cut rubberized armored body for a firm grip protection from impacts.
- Available in Mossy Oak Camo and comes with a carry case, neck strap and lens covers and lens cloth.
PROs
CONs
The Barska Blackhawk Binoculars are a good choice for binoculars if you are on a tight budget.
Just remember that they are cheap binoculars and they will not compare to the best binoculars available today.
Click here for the full Barska Blackhawk Binoculars Review.
3. Celestron Outland X Binoculars
The Celestron Outland X binoculars are designed for a diverse range of outdoor activities, making them an ideal choice for hunters, bird watchers, hikers, and general adventurers. These binoculars cater to individuals who seek well-made optics without the hefty price tag, offering an affordable entry into the world of high-quality binoculars. Whether you’re an experienced hunter or a novice birder, the Outland X 8x42 promises to enhance your outdoor experiences with its versatile features and reliable performance.
One of the standout features of these roof prism binoculars is the 42mm objective lens size, which enhances light-gathering ability, resulting in clearer and brighter images. Additionally, the rugged design ensures that the binoculars can withstand diverse weather conditions, making them suitable for use in rain, fog, and other challenging environments. The waterproofed binoculars offering plenty of fogproof construction adds to their appeal, ensuring that they remain functional and effective regardless of the weather.
Celestron’s lifetime warranty further underscores the value of the Outland X 8x42 binoculars. This guarantee provides peace of mind to users, knowing that their investment is protected for life. Overall, the combination of affordability, durability, and high-quality optics makes the Celestron Outland X 8x42 binoculars a compelling option for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor adventures.
Features
- The Celestron Outland X binoculars feature Fully Coated Lenses and BAK-4 prisms which deliver crisp, clear images.
- These binoculars filled with dry nitrogen gas and then sealed for waterproof use without internal fogging of the lenses.
- These binoculars feature a rubberized armored body for a firm grip and sturdy build for protection from impacts.
- Available in black or green and comes with a durable carrying case, neck strap, objective lens caps, eyepiece rainguard, lens cloth, and instruction manual.
PROs
- Great binoculars with excellent image quality for Under $100.
- I found them to be Waterproof and Fog proof.
- They feel great in your hand with a smooth focus wheel.
- I appreciated the 18mm eye relief for eyeglass wearers.
- They are super lightweight for a full sized binocular.
- Available in green or black.
- I love the neoprene carrying case
- The twist eyecups feel solid and durable.
- I love the No-Fault Lifetime Warranty.
CONs
- I wish the lenses were fully multi coated.
The Celestron Outland binoculars are a great choice for binoculars if you are an outdoor adventurer and you don't want to break the bank.
The price comes in at well under $100 at both Amazon and Optics Planet.
Click Here For Our Full Celestron Outland X Binoculars Review
4. Bushnell H2O 8x42 Binoculars
The Bushnell H2O Binoculars offer some of the features of much more expensive binoculars like 100% waterproof and fogproof design.
RELATED: Best Rangefinder For Bow Hunting
Features
- The Bushnell H2O binoculars feature Multi Coated Optics and BAK-4 prisms which deliver crisp, clear images with improved light transmission
- These binoculars are o-ring sealed and nitrogen purged for 100% waterproof and fogproof use. This feature is usually found in much more expensive binoculars.
- These Binos feature a rubber armored body and soft texture to provide a firm grip and absorb shock.
- Twist eyecups for ease of use with or without eyeglasses. Comes with a carry case, neck strap and lens covers.
PROs
- At this price range, the images are exceptionally sharp, bright, and clear. You’ll be hard-pressed to find the same image quality among similarly priced binoculars.
- They feature multi coated optics.
- They work well in low light conditions.
- They have good field of view.
- They are lightweight, weighing in at 25 ounces.
- The large focus knob is extremely accessible, with lots of textured areas on the sides and on top, you can make sure that your grip won’t slip even when it’s raining.
- Completely waterproof and fogproof and can even survive being fully submerged in water.
- The adjustable long eye relief is ideal for those hunters that wear eyeglasses or sunglasses while hunting.
- The H20 comes with a neck strap and a carrying case.
- The biggest pro has to be the price. These binoculars have a lot of great features for under $100.
CONs
- As good as all that sounds above, the Bushnell H20 binoculars are still an entry level binocular and the image quality will not compare to the more expensive binoculars.
The Bushnell H20 are a compact binocular that will work well for hunters on a tight budget. They have a fair build quality with good glass for cheap binoculars.
Click here for the full Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Roof Prism Binoculars Review.
5. Bushnell Powerview All Purpose 10X42 Binoculars
The Bushnell All Purpose Binoculars are a good value for the price. The reason that these binoculars are so far down the list is because they are not waterproof and fogproof, even though they are nitrogen purged.
Features
- The Bushnell All Purpose binoculars feature Multi Coated Lenses and BK-7 prisms which perform well, but are not preferred over BAK-4 roof prisms
- These binoculars have a rugged, shock absorbing rubber armor coating over an aluminum alloy chassis that will protect the binoculars in the field. However, they are not waterproof and fogproof.
- They are standard size binoculars, and fit very well in your hands. They’re also very lightweight, weighing in at just 21.1 ounces.
- They have a very generous eye relief at 14mm, which you will appreciate if you wear glasses.
PROs
- They are inexpensive, coming at less than $100.
- The Field of View is pretty good, at 288 feet, making it easy to acquire your target, even when it is moving.
- The rubber armor coating will protect against damage in the field.
- They fit well in your hands and are very lightweight, making them perfect for your all day hunts.
- They are tripod adaptable.
- Adjustable eye relief, making them perfect for hunters that wear eyeglasses or sunglasses.
CONs
- They are not waterproof and fogproof.
I would suggest that you spend a little more money on a pair of binoculars, but if you have your mind set on cheap binoculars, these are a good option.
Click here for the full Bushnell Powerview Binoculars Review.
6. Nikon Aculon 10X42 Binoculars
The Nikon Aculon Binoculars feature a porro prism instead of a roof prism, making them larger and heavier than the other cheap binos in this price point. Most of the binoculars that we test and use have roof prisms not porro prisms.
Features
- The Nikon Aculon binoculars feature Multi Coated Eco-Glass Lenses and Bak-4 Porro style prisms making them larger and heavier.
- These binoculars have a rubber armored coating to ensure a firm grip. However, they are not waterproof and fogproof.
- Turn-and-Slide Rubber Eyecups allow for comfortable use and a large, smooth central focus knob allows easy focusing.
- Even though they are heavier than other on our list, the ACULON A211 binoculars are designed to be as light as possible along with excellent ergonomics.
PROs
- The ACULON A211 is light in weight, yet sturdy. These binoculars are waterproof, fog-proof and scratch resistant. They can perform well under a wide range of temperatures and environment they are brought into.
- Rubber armoring on these binoculars gives a shock resistant, comfortable and firm grip. These binoculars can be easily mounted with the help of a tripod adapter, delivering a steady image. Rubber eyecups on the ACULON A211 can be twisted up or down providing a custom fit. It has a smooth focus
knob that is ergonomically placed to allow easy adjustment. It has a zoom lever mounted on the eyepiece which provides quick magnification. - Lenses on these binoculars are light in weight and made of Eco-Glass owing to arsenic-free and lead-free composition. Multiple layer prism coatings on the lens enhance the brightness of the image.
CONs
- The image is not as clear as more expensive binoculars when zoomed in.
- I did experience some chromatic aberration along the outside edges.
- Low light performance is not very good.
- They are very heavy.
- We prefer roof prisms.
Click here for the full Nikon Aculon Binoculars Review.
Best Cheap Binoculars Comparison Chart.
If you are not sure what the terms and numbers mean, visit our Guide to Choosing Hunting Binoculars.
Price (approx): | Weight: | Field Of View | Prism Type: | Eye Relief: | Exit Pupil: | Close Focus | Lens Coatings: | Waterproof and Fogproof | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bushnell Trophy 10X42 | Under $100 | 25.3 oz. | 330 Feet | Roof Prisms | 16mm | 4.2mm | 10 Feet | Multi Coated | Yes |
Barska Blackhawk 10X42 | Under $100 | 24 oz. | 315 Feet | Roof Prisms | 17.5mm | 4.2mm | 6.6 Feet | Multi Coated | Yes |
Celestron Outland X 8X42 | Under $100 | 22 oz. | 356 Feet | Roof Prisms | 18mm | 5.3mm | 13 Feet | Multi Coated | Yes |
Bushnell H2O 8X42 | Under $100 | 22.6 oz. | 305 Feet | Roof Prisms | 17mm | 5mm | 15 Feet | Multi Coated | Yes |
Bushnell All Purpose 10X42 | Under $100 | 22 oz. | 290 Feet | Roof Prisms | 15.7mm | 4.2mm | 25Feet | Multi Coated | No |
Nikon Aculon 10X42 | Under $100 | 26.8 oz. | 315 Feet | Porro Prisms | 11.6mm | 4.2mm | 11.6Feet | Multi Coated | Yes |
RELATED: Best Hunting Binoculars Under $200
What To Look For In A Cheap Binocular
The thing that distinguishes between a cheap binocular and junk is the quality of the glass, the durability of the materials and the lens coatings.
Let's take a look at each of these.
Glass Quality
Many of the more expensive binoculars will have high end ED glass and ECO glass, which is superior to what is offered in cheap binos.
All of our recommended binoculars above feature quality glass that is capable of good image quality, however, image quality is only as good and the lens coatings, so let's take a look at those.
Lens Coatings
All binoculars have coated lenses, but there are different lens coatings that produce different quality optics.
Anytime that light hits a glass surface, some of that light is reflected back. When you consider that a set of binoculars may have light striking 6 to 10 glass lenses, that is a lot of reflection. As a result, manufacturers use optical lens coatings to reduce the amount of light reflected and produce a clearer image.
These are the terms used to describe optical coatings in binoculars.
1. Coated Optics: This is the least expensive and means that one or more surfaces are anti-reflective coated with a single-layer coating. I would not suggest buying binoculars with only coated optics.
2. Fully Coated Optics: This is fairly common in cheap binoculars and it means that all air-to-glass surfaces are anti-reflective coated with a single-layer coating.
3. Multi-Coated Optics: This is getting into better quality binoculars and it means that one or more surfaces have anti-reflective multi-layer coatings. All of our recommendations above have multi coated optics.
4. Fully Multi-Coated Optics: This is used in the most expensive binoculars and means that all air-to-glass surfaces are anti-reflective multi-layer coated.
The optical lens coatings used will vary based on price with the more expensive binoculars using the better coatings.
Examples of coatings include:
- Anti-reflective coating. This is the most common type of coating used, and it helps keep the lens from reflecting the back glare into your eyes.
- Anti-scratch coating. This protects the glass from dirt and dust particles.
- Water-repellent coating. This helps shed water and resist outside fogging.
- Metallic mirror coating. This enhances the light reflection so that the image is brighter. On roof prism types, you also have dielectric coatings for the same purpose.
- Phase correction coating. This is just for roof prism binos, and it helps bring about a clearer and sharper image.
Durability
One of the most important features of any binocular that is going to be used by outdoor enthusiasts is that they are waterproof and fog proof. That means beiing filled with nitrogen or argon and sealed to prevent water intrusion.
When I say fog proof, I am talking about internal fogging. All binoculars will fog on the outside during temperature extremes and high humidity conditions. You will simply have to wipe the outside of the glass with a lens cloth to clear exterior fog.
The other thing that we look for is a durable build. What is the chassis made of?
The best binoculars use an aluminum chassis, but many manufacturers will use plastic to lower the cost of binoculars, which results in less durable optics.
Our recommended binos above all feature a rubber armour coating that adds durability to the build and will help protect the optics from unwanted damage if dropped.
Final Thoughts
When searching for quality binoculars for hunting under $100, you have to be very careful because there are a lot of junk binoculars on the market today.
The good news is that there are some really good affordable binoculars available with fully multi coated optics, high glass quality, and water and fog proof.
RELATED: How To Clean Binoculars
As you can see above, the quality drops off quickly between our number one choice and our number five choice.
After all of our testing, the Bushnell Trophy Binoculars stood out as the best cheap binoculars in this year's binocular test.
We hope that you have found our testing helpful. We pride ourselves on recommending hunting gear that we actually use and would recommend to a friend or family member.
