Binoculars are essential gear for hunters, bird watchers, and nature-lovers alike. Unfortunately, the highest-quality binoculars can cost a small fortune!

The price tags can easily extend into the hundreds (and sometimes thousands) of dollars.

If you’re on a budget or don’t need a professional pair of camping binoculars, then you’ll balk at the thought of spending that kind of cash!

That’s why I decided to look into the best binoculars under 100 dollars.

I’ve found and reviewed a selection of the best low cost binoculars that still offer all (or most!) of the qualities you need. Want to see what I came up with?

Keep reading for 8 reviews of the best cheap but good binoculars for outdoor & recreational use on the market today.

[Last Checked & Updated: February 2021]

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THE BEST BINOCULARS UNDER $100 – BEST CHEAP BINOCULARS SUMMARY TABLE

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TOP CONSIDERATIONS FOR CHOOSING THE BEST BUDGET BINOCULARS

There are dozens of cheap binoculars for sale out there. But if you don’t know what to look for, there’s every chance you’ll buy a set that isn’t fit for purpose.

Let’s start, then, with a discussion of three key considerations when shopping for the best budget binoculars.

Magnification Power and Image Clarity

As you can imagine, two fundamental considerations include the degree of magnification and image clarity. In other words, you want to be able to zoom in far enough without everything going too blurry!

It helps to keep in mind the purpose for which you need the binoculars.

For example, if you’ll be using your binoculars for bird watching or long range shooting, then the magnification must be quite high. A lower magnification level would suffice for activities such as boating.

Make sure you compare your objectives with the magnification and image clarity on offer. Only then will you know you’re buying a suitable pair of binoculars.

The Size of Your Binoculars

There’s nothing worse than carrying around heavy gear when you’re out and about. You want things to be as light as possible, while maintaining a high degree of functionality.

The same goes for your binoculars!

If you’re looking to save space and weight, then you need an appropriately compact pair of binoculars. They shouldn’t be too heavy to carry around on your neck all day, or too large to stow in your pack.

In an ideal world, they’d be small enough to fit in your pocket, without weighing them down too much.

The Price of the Binoculars

Last but not least, it’s important to consider the price of the binoculars you want to buy.

Of course, for the sake of this article I’ve set a budget of 100 dollars or less, which can get you a good set of field glasses without breaking the bank.

As I mentioned in the intro, though, you can find pairs that are ten times more than that.

It’s up to you to strike a balance between budget and features. The best hunting binoculars under 100 dollars, for example, will lack many of the qualities of more expensive options, but they won’t burn too much of a hole in your pocket.

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THE BEST BINOCULARS UNDER 100 DOLLARS BUYING GUIDE

TOP 8 BEST AFFORDABLE BINOCULARS

1. The SkyGenius 10 x 50 Powerful Binoculars for Adults

KEY FEATURES

• Magnification power: 10x
• Objective lens size: 50 mm
• Field of view: 367 feet / 1000 yards
• Weight: 1.75 lb
• Angle of vision: 6.2º
• Exit pupil: 5mm

DESCRIPTION

Looking for a versatile pair of binoculars that ticks all the right boxes? Think hard about the Sky Genius 10 x 50.

With a magnification of 10x and a field of view of 1000 yards, they’d make ideal binoculars for bird watching, hunting, and/or simply enjoying sports from afar. Known to provide a crystal clear and vibrant image, with a large field of view, and all for under $50, it’s no surprise they’re so highly rated online.

The diopter system adjusts the imbalance vision for both eyes too. These smartly designed binoculars also feature an anti-slip grip to prevent accidental drops and damage.

PROS

• Adaptable to tripod
• Water-resistant
• Multipurpose and versatile
• 10x ideal magnification

CONS

• Performance decreases in low light to complete darkness
• Relatively bulky design

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2. The Stellax ZoomX Binoculars for Adults

KEY FEATURES

• Magnification power: 10x
• Objective diameter: 42 mm
• Field of view: 305 feet / 1000 yards
• Weight: 1.2 lb

DESCRIPTION

The Stellax Zoom X binoculars have been specifically made for the outdoor sports enthusiast, with numerous features that make them ideal for the outdoors.

For instance, they’re 100% water-resistant and sturdily built, which makes them well-suited to the rigors of being outdoors. The rubberized body allows a comfortable grip and reduces the chance of dropping them; the lightweight construction means you’ll be able to transport or wear them around your neck all day with no issues.

When it comes to performance, these binoculars are just as impressive. They boast multi-coated lenses, with BAK4 Prism barium crown glass that offers clear and high contrast images no matter the weather or light conditions.

If you’ve ever longed for a super-zoom photo but don’t have the camera for it, then this deal has you covered too. Besides the binoculars, the package also includes a smartphone adapter that’s compatible with both Apple and Android products. You can now capture phenomenal photos with just your phone.

PROS

• Waterproof by IPX7 standards
• No fogging of the lens
• BaK4 prism with ultra-phase colour correction
• Lightweight, compact, and comfortable

CONS

• No stabilization features to ensure focused images

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3. The Nikon ACULON 10 x 50 Binoculars

KEY FEATURES

• Magnification power: 10x
• Objective diameter: 50 mm
• Field of view: 341 feet / 1000 yards
• Weight: 2.64 pounds

DESCRIPTION

Weighing only 2.64 pounds, these are definitely one of the best compact binoculars under 100 bucks. The product is designed to offer great performance and functionality while also ensuring an ergonomic, lightweight body.

These 10 x 50 binoculars with a 1000 yard field of view bring you closer the action, with spherical multi-coated eco-glass lenses that should provide a clear and vibrant picture.

They’re easy to use as well. A central focus knob allows you to adjust the focus to your liking, and ‘turn and slide’ rubber eyecups reduce the strain on your eyes. Finally, the durable rubber-armored coating provides a slip-free grip even when it’s been raining.

PROS

• Multipurpose functionality
• Turn and slide rubber eyecups
• Aspherical multi-coated eco glass lenses

CONS

• The case is not very secure and can open easily

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4. The Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Roof Prism Binoculars

KEY FEATURES

• Magnification power: 8x
• Objective diameter: 42 mm
• Field of view: 325 feet / 1000 yards
• Weight: 1.56 lbs

DESCRIPTION

The Bushnell H2Os are arguably the best affordable binoculars for outdoor recreational purposes.

These binoculars offer quality optics for a fraction of the price that other manufacturers quote. They use BaK4 prisms and multi-coated optics to optimize light transmission, creating a clearer image.

Now, the 8x magnification is less than other binoculars on this list, but that shouldn’t detract from its functionality. With 42mm objective diameter and 17mm eye-relief, the specifications should be just right for a pair of outdoor binoculars.

Other than these technical features, the Bushnells boasts a variety of useful features that make them comfortable and convenient to use. Once again, they’re water-resistant and have a non-slip rubber-armour coating (with a soft textured grip) for non-slip use.

You’ll also enjoy the convenient central placement of the focus knob and twist-up eyecups, which all contribute to a great user-friendly experience.

PROS

• BaK4 PrisProvides eye relief
• Water-resistant body
• Roof prism technology
• Limited lifetime warranty

CONS

• The combination of multi-coated with roof prisms makes for a darker than expected image

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5. Celestron SkyMaster 15 x 70 Binoculars

KEY FEATURES

• Magnification power: 15x
• Objective diameter: 70 mm
• Field of view: 231 feet / 1000 yards
• Weight: 3.28 pounds

DESCRIPTION

For those who like to watch the stars on a clear night, the Celestron SkyMaster Giant binoculars would be a perfect choice.

The high magnification power of 15x ensures that you can hone in on the night-sky, observing every tiny detail to magical effect.

The objective lens diameter for this pair of binoculars is pretty high at 70mm too, which allows you to experience a clear and detailed image even in dim light (that’s good news when you’re stargazing!).

One of my favourite things about these binoculars is how compatible they are for people who wear eyeglasses. It also has a diopter adjustment from -4 to +8 for fine focusing.

However, for all its qualities, the SkyMasters aren’t free from potential problems. The clue’s in the name right?! They perform extremely well, but at 3.28 pounds, they really are giants. Don’t expect them to be the most comfortable pair out there and consider using a tripod for extended periods of use.

For ultralight hikers, bird watchers, or hunters, they’re unlikely to be ideal. For everyone else, though, you’re in for a treat!

PROS

• Multi-coated optics
• Large aperture perfect for stargazing
• Perfect for users with visual acuity issues
• Uses BaK4 prisms

CONS

• Not lightweight!

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6. Adasion 12 x 42 Binoculars (Best Binoculars for the Price!!)

KEY FEATURES

• Magnification power: 12x
• Objective diameter: 42 mm
• Field of view: 367 feet / 1000 yards
• Weight: 1.25 lbs

DESCRIPTION

It was love at first sight when I read the specifications of this product online.

With an average rating of 4.9/5 over almost 700 reviews, these binoculars are, quite simply, outstanding.

They produce a clear and vibrant image (thanks to the high 12x magnification) and weigh only 1.25 pounds! They also boast BaK4 Prisms and FMC lenses, which allow 99.6% light transmittance. Throw in the large eyepieces and a supreme image-quality is guaranteed.

For budding photographers out there, the Adasions come with a smartphone photograph adaptor too. Clip it to the binos, attach your phone, and you can snap incredible close-ups like never before.

However, though these binoculars are water-resistant and fog-proof, they still must be used with care. They can only resist light water splashes and aren’t suitable for use in heavy downpours.

Make sure that they’re stored in a dry and safe place when you are not using them too. Any damages occurred due to inadequate care are not covered by the warranty of this product.

PROS

• Crystal clear image
• Great value for money
• Lightweight and compact
• Smartphone adaptor included
• Adjustable eyecups – suitable for those who wear glasses

CONS

• Cannot be used in heavy rain for an extended period of time

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7. Celestron Nature DX 8×32 Binocular

KEY FEATURES

• Magnification power: 8x
• Objective diameter: 32 mm
• Field of view: 388 feet / 1000 yards
• Weight: 1.25 pounds

DESCRIPTION

These Celestron field glasses seem to be another great pair of entry-level binoculars for nature enthusiasts on a budget.

You’ll enjoy the 8x magnification and a 388-foot field of view, which is ideal for birdwatching, observing insects, and many other outdoor activities.

HD optics are guaranteed when using these binos. They offer fully multi-coated lenses, BaK4 prisms, 8x magnification power, and a 6.5-foot close focus. These features deliver a clear image with high contrast and resolution.

It’s a package deal as well!

They come with everything you’ll need to use, carry, and store them! Expect a carrying case, objective lens caps, an eyepiece rain-guard, a neck strap, a lens cloth, and a detailed instruction manual to boot. What more could one ask for?!

PROS

• Fairly lightweight
• Superior image quality
• Multi-coated lens
• Wide field of view
• Twist-up eyecups provide plenty of eye relief

CONS

Without a tripod, there might be occasional blurring of the image

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8. The Gosky 10×42 Roof Prism Binoculars for Adults

KEY FEATURES

• Magnification power: 10x
• Objective diameter: 42 mm
• Field of view: 307 feet / 1000 yards
• Weight: 1.54 pounds

DESCRIPTION

The GoSky 10×42 is another multipurpose pair of binoculars that are well-suited to a variety of outdoor activities.

From hiking and birdwatching to enjoying sports and concerts, the 10x magnification, wide field of view, and HD optics make everything possible.

You’ll enjoy the advanced multi-guard FMC coating on the lenses too, which allows optimal light transmission and image quality.

Like many other of the budget binoculars on this list, these use BaK4 Prism tech for high reflectance across the full visible range. What’s more, these binos have a 100% lifetime guarantee, making them a risk-free purchase.

With their durable, water-resistant, and fog-proof design, though, you’re unlikely to have any issues anyway!

PROS

• HD superior optics
• Durable framework and rubber armour
• Comes with a smartphone mount (compatible with all popular phones)
• Package deal!
• Risk-free purchase

CONS

• Excessive heat or running water can cause damage to the binoculars

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THE BEST VALUE BINOCULARS BUYING GUIDE: FINAL THOUGHTS

Binoculars are available for a range of prices today. They go from cheap children’s toys worth a couple of dollars to professional models that cost thousands.

However, if you keep your eyes peeled and zoom in on the best binoculars under 100 bucks, you can easily combine both affordability and performance. That’s good news for outdoor enthusiasts who often rely on a high-quality pair of binoculars out in the bush.

Hopefully, the reviews and buying guide above will help you find the perfect pair of budget binoculars for all your outdoor activities.

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