Many people are misguided that quality binoculars are expensive, but that is not actually true in all cases. If you follow our guide, you can purchase the best pair of binoculars under $50, that have the same features you can find in more expensive ones.
In this article, we have created a list of the 10 best binoculars under 50 dollars in 2024! Whether you’re looking for a binocular for exploring the great outdoors, birdwatching, attending sporting events, or even stargazing, these affordable binoculars are designed to enhance your visual experience without compromising on quality.
All the recommendations are the result of several weeks of research. When you have chosen one among them, you won’t need to look for another one for the next couple of years.
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Best Binoculars Under $50 Full Reviews
Take a look at our ranking of the top 10 best binoculars under $50 in 2024
- RONHAN B20X501113 Binoculars – Today’s Top Pick
- UncleHu 20×50 Binoculars – Editor’s Choice
- OVIFM 12X42 Binoculars – Ultralight and Easy to Carry
- Adorrgon 889268 Binoculars – Best Value
- Hontry 8010B 10×42 Binoculars – for All Outdoor Activities
- LONOVE 20×50 HD Binoculars – Powerful & Professional
- SkyGenius 10×42 Binoculars – Best for Birdwatching
- Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars – Modern Exterior
- FREE SOLDIER 10×50 Binoculars – Best for Hunting
- Pankoo 10010 Binoculars – Compact & Wide Angle
1. RONHAN B20X501113 High Power Military
RONHAN B20X501113 is a fantastic device if you are looking for a multi-functional binocular but don’t want to spend more than $40. It allows you to observe both wildlife and the sky at night. In addition, these binoculars offer you a wide field of view without making any sacrifices on optical quality.
However, the body construction quality feels cheap, but they can withstand normal collisions and crashes pretty easily. Because of its small size, it won’t be an issue even if someone travels without a backpack. It could also be an acceptable choice by providing a long time service life.
On the other hand, the RONHAN B20X501113 binoculars are super-sleek and extremely easy to operate. The Bak-4 prism has a perfectly round exit pupil which provides bright, clear and razor-sharp viewing. They are also ideal for following the rapid movements of wildlife, nature, or even astronomy.
Its multilayer-coated aspherical lenses provide superior light transmission and minimal distortion during observation. The centre-focus knob guarantee fast and high precision focusing on the different distance. Thanks to the instructions, you can easily learn and manipulate.
These binoculars weigh 800g, making them one of the heaviest models on the market at this price range. It can withstand extreme weather conditions. Also, this device is impact resistant.
PROS
- Wide field of view
- Sleek and solid design
- Excellent visual quality
- Comfortable grip
- Versatile to Use
CONS
- A little bit heavy
2. UncleHu 20×50 Powerful Binoculars for Adults
If you want to be a good futuristic adventurer, the UncleHu 20×50 High Power Binoculars could be the best option for you. It is a good pair of binoculars for different outdoor activities. Hard to believe you could get such decent-quality binoculars under 40 dollars. In fact, with its large 50mm lens, high-quality prisms and multi-coated optics, you can get a high-contrast view, making them appear clearer and more visible than ever.
However, the UncleHu 20×50 is full-size binoculars, not compact like the RONHAN B20X501113. They are highly adjustable to fit your vision preference. Also, the glass is super clear and bright. The front lens caps are connected with straps, so you don’t have to worry about losing them.
The design of the binoculars is mainly made of rubber. This material absorbs shock greatly. On the other hand, this feature makes this model waterproof up to 1 meter for 10 min.
It features 10x magnification to observe the distance so closely. Images remain crisp and bright thanks to the multi-coated green lens coating and the reflectivity of the prisms. In addition, the eyecups are ergonomic and the lenses eliminate fogging thanks to the presence of nitrogen.
The minimum focusing distance is 3 m. The linear field perceived at 1000 yds is 184 ft, which is a remarkable distance at this price range. As for the angular field, it is 7 °. In the package, you’ll get a carrying case, a wrist strap, and a protection cover to keep the lenses in good condition.
PROS
- Easy to operate
- Easy focus system
- Durable metal structure
- Compact and lightweight
- Ideal for bird watching and hunting
CONS
- Some quality control problems in the long run
3. OVIFM 12X42 Binoculars for Adults & Kids
OVIFM is yet another good brand that offers decent quality binoculars at an affordable price, especially this small one that is meant for outdoor fun. OVIFM 12X42 Binoculars are very suitable for long-term activities; you can easily carry them on your neck.
It is very convenient to use. It is also compact and slim enough to be handled by any kid. The total weight is only 1.57 lbs, making them one of the most portable binoculars under $50 on the market today. Also, the size is pretty tiny, so carrying is not a big deal for your kids.
On the other hand, it is pretty agile and easy to operate. Your kid won’t face any issues while using this pair of binoculars because of some helpful features like the case, harness strap, and much more. It allows you to keep your hands free to do other things and still have the binoculars on your chest.
It is multi coated with premium Bak7 prisms, which guarantee superior light transmission. The powerful 12X magnification and 42mm large objective lenses provide large and detailed images. You can even get 374 feet wide at 1094 yards far away. So you’ll be able to observe a great distance without actually adjusting their position.
Both binoculars and case are built-in in excellent quality. It has nonslip body with environmentally friendly framework and rubber armor, which provide comfortable and firm grip. There are also lens covers for both ends, which are great to use without the need for glasses.
PROS
- Multi-function Image Stabilized binoculars
- Soft and flexible harness
- Has strong tensile strength
- Compact and light
- Adjustable Eyecups fit everyone
CONS
- Not sturdy enough
4. Adorrgon 889268 12×42 Powerful Binoculars
Nature in all her glory, thanks in part to the HD Vision with Quality Optics, comes via the Adorrgon brand. You can use this device for different usages such as bird watching, sports viewing, and even hunting. It has consistently been among the top-selling binoculars from 2019 up until the present.
The Adorrgon 12×42 HD binoculars combine good optics with excellent brightness and a wide field of vision. Their ease of use is appreciable for making rapid trips. It is compatible with the wearing of glasses and there are adjustable eyecups provided.
The focus range is extremely wide, you’ll be able to focus on something that’s relatively close, as well as things far off in the distance. The exit pupil diameter is 4mm while the magnification is 12x. Whether it’s day or night, aspherical lenses offer good brightness and convincing contrast.
This unit measures 5.75 x 4.95 x 2.1 inches and weighs 1.1 lbs. The construction is pretty much durable and the optical lenses are covered with protection against sunlight and an anti-reflective filter. The body is made from plastic while a rubber coating is placed around the eyes.
Adorrgon binocular holds well in the hand and is resistant to light rains. However, this model can’t be fixed on a tripod for more stability. But if you want something smaller and lighter, you can choose this model.
PROS
- Lightweight and durable
- Comes with everything you need
- Optic quality is excellent
- Easy to adjust
- Versatile
CONS
- Not good in low-light conditions
- Objective lens seems abnormally loose
5. Hontry 8010B 10×42 Waterproof Binoculars
Hontry 8010B binoculars could be the ideal solution for any outdoorsman, especially the small game hunter or novice-to-intermediate bird watcher. The 10x zoom is perfect for those applications, and the fairly generous 42mm lens provides a bright, clear image which is crucial for hunting or birdwatching.
They are well built with Plastic and Rubber materials to feel sturdy. The fit and finish are also excellent. The slightly rubberized finishing actually looks great and gives you a nice non-slip grip. Compared to many expensive or premium binoculars, this model performs great in uncertain weather conditions, even on gray and overcast days.
The focus knob is large and the adjustable eye relief works well and doesn’t slip. The right eye focus adjustment is also nice and tight as well so it doesn’t move when you don’t want it to. The focus is central, and it opens a wide field of vision of 65° through the lenses.
Hontry 8010B binoculars are nitrogen-filled and completely waterproof up to 1 meter depth. In addition, this device includes a dioptric correction that adjusts the sharpness (you gain a better understanding and feel). It is also perfect for observing boats a few hundred meters away.
The rubber lens caps are durable and well-made. They are all attached to the body or the strap so that you can’t lose them easily. You can also remove them if you don’t want them in the way.
In the package, the manufacturer offers the hanging bag, carrying strap, 2x objective lens covers, a soft rubber tethered ocular rain guard, and the user manual.
PROS
- Provide clear and distinguishable images
- Solid construction
- Very compact and slim design
- Nitrogen-filled binoculars
- Handy and lightweight
CONS
- Low magnification level
6. LONOVE 20×50 HD Professional Binoculars
Although LONOVE is not a famous name, they excel in providing dependable binoculars equipped with a multitude of user-friendly, cutting-edge features. For example, you can use the LONOVE 20×50 HD for Bird Watching as well as other outdoor activities such as hunting wildlife watching, and more.
With these binoculars, you can get impressive quality because they provide high-quality visual content with great detailing. It comes with more professional optics to ensure more stable views and a wider field of view. Besides this, you can adjust the image angle precisely.
It has advanced features and options including 99.9% High Light Transmission, 25mm Perfect Eyepiece Size, and Decent PR. With 50mm large objective lenses, you can see much in low-light situations but not mean complete darkness. Even if you are a beginner, you can easily operate it.
LONOVE binoculars come with professional FMC coatings Lens & powerful BAK4 high index prisms & 50mm large objective lenses. They are durable but a bit heavy (not too heavy). And with a non-slip design, it won’t scratch or break even though drops accidentally. It performs well in harsh weather because it is waterproof and dust-resistant.
This unit has a threaded spot on the bottom that not only attaches lens cover straps but can also be attached to a tripod with an adapter.
PROS
- High light-gathering power
- Stable and clear image
- Easy to carry everywhere
- Good structural design
CONS
- A bit heavy
7. SkyGenius 10×42 Quick Focus Binoculars
SkyGenius 10×42 Quick Focus binoculars are very well suited for observing wildlife during the day. These are not only for the convenience of their eyecups but also for their visual precision and their rapid and efficient focusing, even at a short distance. Initially, it was designed for Bird Watching, but they are also useful for hiking and ornithology.
SkyGenius binoculars are easy to handle and operate. Their design materials are also tough and durable. It has high original color reproduction and sharp resolution, that won’t let you miss the color of every feather on these cute birds.
The 22mm eyepiece has a large clear diameter which relieves eyesight fatigue and observes objects more comprehensively. It can also be used in low light conditions and the high transmittance rate can ensure that objects can still be seen clearly in a dim field of view.
Despite everything, their field of vision is more limited than that of their competitors.
However, this device is easy to handle thanks to its ergonomics and lightweight design. It weighs only 1.1 lbs and the compact dimensions are 8.82 x 7.99 x 4.21 inches. The package also includes the neck strap, so you can take them with you everywhere.
SkyGenius binoculars are made with polycarbonate and non-slip and durable rubber, that holds well in the hand. The eyecups are made with soft and comfortable silicone. Although the visibility isn’t as bright as a $100 pair, it’s worth the investment.
PROS
- Perfect size in terms of carrying
- Easy to adjust to pupil size
- Compact and lightweight
- Sturdy and good design
- Powerful lenses
CONS
- Focus adjustment seems to slip slightly when making adjustments
8. Bushnell PowerView 2 Binoculars
Bushnell is a brand recognized for its high-quality binoculars, rangefinders, trail cameras, and more outdoor devices. However, Bushnell Powerview 2 Binoculars combine a tough design with modern styling, making them able to excel in both indoor and outdoor applications.
The lightweight aluminum-alloy chassis and rubber armor are durably constructed for diligent use. The textured rubber grips ensure extra security and comfort. At the same time, it’ll give your hands a confident grip during a long time viewing and enormously reduce the chance of accidental dropping.
The objective lens diameter is 40mm, and the magnification is x20. The display is crisp and clear delivering natural colors, even at the edges of the lenses. The high-contrast optics further enhance the image, all the more so as maximum sharpness is guaranteed from 20 m to infinity.
The visual field at 1000 m offers good visibility of 288 ft. As for the minimum distance to be respected for focusing, it is very high at 38 m. A ridged focus control wheel lets you sharpen image quality and focus on your subject with a simple twist. The focal range and the images are relatively stable when viewed at a distance.
The PowerView 2 model is also tripod compatible, so you can keep your hands free for other tasks. They’re on the heavy side and large, but this is a common characteristic of this style, essential for capturing ample light and achieving sharp focus on distant objects, especially considering the price point.
PROS
- One of the best low-light binoculars on the list
- Long-lasting durability
- Modern exterior design
- Solid built
- Simple to use and focus
CONS
- Not water-resistance
- Closest distance is very high
- A little too powerful for general use
9. FREE SOLDIER 20×50 with Smartphone Adapter
For the birdwatcher or hunter out there looking for the best binoculars under $50, then the FREE SOLDIER has a pretty good deal for you with some amazing accessories.
These observation binoculars feature 20x magnification for a 50mm objective diameter. The lenses are larger than usual to give lots of light-gathering power, so the more effective they will be in low light.
However, the main attraction of these binoculars is their 28mm large eyepieces, you can see clearer and full-size images with great relief, and support to take full-screen pictures or videos.
This device is also easy to handle and use due to its lightweight and discreet design. Moreover, they are specially designed to follow the movements of birds and are ideal for beginners.
The linear field perceived at 1000 yds is 184 ft with an angle of 7.5 °. They are waterproof and their lower zoom allows them to see as much detail as their competitors. You can enjoy the amazing and beautiful view like a professional photographer.
FREE SOLDIER binoculars feature a durable structure with rubber armor and excellent sealing properties for shock resistance and anti-slip grip. It can also be an excellent choice for hunting & wildlife observation. Overall, it is undoubtedly a good investment to carry out observations of very high precision.
PROS
- Easy to rotate and focus
- Clear at a long distance
- Include phone adapter
- Lightweight
- Robust
CONS
- A little less bright
- Lens covers are not that great
- The strap is a little thin
- Phone adaptor is not good
10. Pankoo 10010 10×50 Powerful Binoculars
We conclude our list of the best binoculars under $50 with a compact pair of binoculars from Pankoo. And if you are in search of binoculars that don’t demand much from your pockets but deliver outstanding performance in the hunting field, the Pankoo 10010 will be a nice pick for you. It is super easy to use for observing games. On the other side, kids and outdoor fans can grab this model doing so many tasks.
Although it is just a cheap binocular, if you try your hands on it, you won’t notice so much. Because it has excellent grip capabilities. With 10x magnification and 50mm object lens diameter, you can see a clear face from more than 800 feet away even in low light conditions.
Pankoo 10010 binoculars allow you to observe the sky or animals even in low light. It is waterproof and anti-fog. If this device falls into the water from too strong a wave, it will float on the surface, so you don’t have to dive deep to retrieve it.
The eyecups are ergonomic. You’ll benefit from excellent image quality which is very bright, crisp and realistic. However, this model is a bit heavy (2.1 lbs) and bulky, which can be disabling. But it is engineered that way so it can fit in a small space.
It is super stable, no matter where you use it. Also, it’ll stop automatically when not using it. Pankoo 10010 binocular is compatible with a tripod and glasses. In addition, it can perform Wide Angle. The 10 Seconds Quick Focus gives you a more joyful experience. And you benefit from numerous accessories.
PROS
- Suitable for Kids Over Ten Years Old
- Doesn’t cause any neck pain
- Night vision is remarkable at this price
- Lifetime warranty
- Comfortable grip
CONS
- A little bit heavy
- Eye relief is only 13 mm
Best Binoculars Under $50 – Buyer’s Guide
Binoculars are designed for specific or different usages and their features vary from one model to another. So, before buying a good pair of binoculars, there are some essential factors that you should consider. To help you figure out which model is best for you, we’re here to give some insights…
Magnification
Magnification determines the amplitude of the field of vision. Depending on the model, the magnification rate varies. It goes on average from x4 to x20. Therefore, an element located at 1000 m with a magnification of x10 is visible with the binoculars as if it were 100 m from you. The larger it is, the more it allows you to visualize distant elements and the more difficult it is to manipulate. However, In the case of large zooms, you need to be stable or have a tripod.
Field of view
The diameter of the lens determines the field of view that your binoculars offer. In general, a wider field of view is useful for rapid movement, while a narrower field of view is more suitable for observing more static elements. This criterion is however closely linked to the magnification, and it is impossible to determine the quality of visibility without considering the field of view.
Diameter of the lens
Represented by the second number appearing in the name of each product. It influences the width of the field of view and the quality of the luminosity. The larger the lens diameter, the greater the brightness. It is also important to check the quality of the light at night or in the dark. To calculate the luminosity index, the diameter of the exit pupil must be squared.
Type of optical glass
Low dispersion ED glass decreases the risk of chromatic aberration (slightly blurry images that transform white light into several bands of colors) and allows you to get an HD image with realistic colors. Multi-coated optics protect your eyes more effectively with their anti-reflective coating and they deliver better sharpness.
Focusing
Generally, this is done using a dial placed on the binoculars. It is necessary to respect a certain distance so that it can be done precisely.
The minimum distances are usually between 2 and 10 m. The more expensive pairs will benefit from a shorter distance while the less expensive ones will need a longer distance. Some binoculars even incorporate an automatic correction system to improve sharpness.
Size
Lighter binoculars offer better portability and are easier to handle. They also promote faster movement tracking. Likewise, the foldability of some eyecups helps to save more space in a bag. On the other hand, heavier binoculars are better able to observe fixed things, details, or more distant objects. However, to guarantee their stability, it is necessary to ensure their compatibility with a tripod.
Resistance and comfort
The quality of the materials influences not only the comfort of use but also the durability and tightness of the pair. In this sense, the rubber covers placed at the eyecups prevent slipping. If you wear glasses, make sure that the binoculars are suitable.
Finally, resistance is also measured by the degree of tightness. Waterproof equipment (multilayer optics) eliminates the inconvenience caused by bad weather and fog.
Accessories
In the package, manufacturers commonly deliver a multitude of accessories. Among the most popular are the carrying case, cleaning cloth, lanyard, instructions for use, and various lens caps. All aim for better portability, ease of use, and minimal maintenance promoting image quality.
FAQs
Are binoculars under $50 suitable for serious birdwatching or outdoor activities?
Absolutely! While these binoculars are budget-friendly, many models on our list offer impressive optical clarity and performance, making them perfectly suitable for birdwatching, sporting events, and various outdoor activities.
Can I use these binoculars for stargazing?
Although they do not rival high-end astronomical binoculars, some models on this list offer decent stargazing capabilities, especially for casual observers. Look for ones with larger objective lenses for better low-light performance.
Can these binoculars be used by eyeglass wearers comfortably?
Many of the models featured here come with adjustable eye relief, which is beneficial for eyeglass wearers. Make sure to choose binoculars with longer eye relief for a comfortable viewing experience.
Are cheap binoculars waterproof or fog-proof?
Some budget-friendly binoculars offer water and fog resistance, but not all binoculars under $50 come with these features.
The Verdict
The RONHAN B20X501113 is the most suitable observation binoculars under $50 to satisfy both kids and adults. They allow you to follow rapid movements. Their large field of vision and design quality are their main strengths. However, if you want to buy for your kids, the OVIFM 12X42 will be a good pick.
Now you know the best budget binoculars on the market, their features and their strengths, so you no longer have any doubts! We do our best to offer you a comparison that allows you to choose the best model in your budget. If you need any information about this list, leave a comment below.